China-Russia Ties: Denisov: Positive progress made over 2018

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Europe

02:00

China's relations with one of its closest neighbors continues to improve. Russia was the first country to establish diplomatic ties with China back in 1949. And today, experts say the positive momentum continues as CGTN's Sun Tianyuan reports.

A hearty congratulations from Russia to China on 40 years of reform and opening up.

Russia's ambassador to China Andrei Denisov says years ago, he'd have doubted the possibility of China reaching the achievements that it has.

ANDREI DENISOV RUSSIAN AMBASSADOR TO CHINA "China's reform and opening-up is unprecedented. Over the past few years, the country has become an engine for international trade and global economic growth."

In 2018, trade between China and Russia surpassed 97 billion US dollars.

That's a 28 percent surge compared to the same period last year.

The two sides have forged practical cooperation in several sectors including energy, infrastructure, and e-commerce.

ANDREI DENISOV RUSSIAN AMBASSADOR TO CHINA "We have a balanced bilateral trade system and a good investment. The two countries have conducted large cooperation in the energy sector, including the Yamal liquified natural gas cooperation project."

People-to-people exchanges saw a major boost during this year's World Cup.

Over 100 thousand Chinese soccer fans and regular tourists visited Russia during the summer event.

Denisov says the two sides are working to further simplify the procedures for visa-free entries.

Next year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Embassy representatives say it will be a year of celebration, for both sides and a highlight for the world.

SUN TIANYUAN BEIJING "The ambassador says that bilateral cooperation over the past year was ample and productive. He adds that the momentum is unstoppable. And he hopes for a fruitful 2019."

Sun Tianyuan, CGTN, Beijing.