The Chinese Foreign Ministry says Russian President Putin will visit China as part of a mechanism of annual mutual visits. Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying says the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Russia has continued to improve at a steady and healthy pace. Hua also said ties between the two nations are at an all-time best.

HUA CHUNYING, SPOKESPERSON CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY "According to the preliminary results of Russia's central election commission, Russian President Vladimir Putin has won the presidential election again. Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent a congratulatory message to Putin. On March 17th, President Xi Jinping was elected Chinese president by a unanimous vote during the 13th National People's Congress. President Putin also sent a congratulatory message to President Xi Jinping as soon as results were announced. President Putin will visit China as part of a mechanism of annual mutual visits. China believes under the leadership of President Putin, Russia will continue to develop steadily and play a bigger role in international affairs. China also believes the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Russia will embrace new opportunities and achievements, contributing to maintaining peace and stability in the region and the world as a whole."