中俄制定三年计划

Russia's President Dmitry Medvedev begins his two-day visit to China starting today and in a recent interview with major Chinese media in Moscow said "Russia regards China as one of its foremost partners in its foreign policy."

The president also expressed sincere condolences to the leaders and people of China after the devastating Sichuan earthquake on May 12.

"Our thoughts are with you at the moment, and we believe that China is capable of emerging from the aftermath of the disaster," he said.

Medvedev added that Russia, which has already sent several batches of humanitarian aid as well as rescue and medical teams to China, is willing to help more in future.

On the Beijing Olympic Games, Medvedev expressed his belief China will hold a successful event and that Chinese athletes, and indeed their Russian friends, will excel.

"At least half of Russia will watch the Beijing Games with enthusiasm. Sports telecasts by Russian media will record the highest audience rating," he added.

Sino-Russian relations have strengthened steadily since the signing of the bilateral Good-neighborly Friendship and Cooperation Treaty in 2001, Medvedev said, adding that mutual coordination is making progress in every field.

Medvedev said any topic of interest to both sides could be discussed.

He said Russia plans to enhance and develop energy cooperation with China, which is crucial to bilateral trade and economic ties.

Russia exported energy valued at $500 million to China in 2001, but the figure surpassed $6.7 billion last year, Medvedev said.

The two nations have reached a basic agreement on the East Siberia-Pacific Ocean oil pipeline and its branch to China, Medvedev said, adding that negotiations between Russia's largest oil company Rosneft Oil and the China National Petroleum Corporation are nearly complete.

While expressing his willingness to establish new oil refineries with China, he said natural gas cooperation between Russia and China is also under discussion.

Medvedev said Russia's foreign policy during his presidency will be predictable, honest and creditable, while preserving the interest of the Russian people.