We begin with China congratulating Russian President Vladimir Putin for his inauguration on Monday. Putin was sworn in for a fourth term -- ensuring him another six years in office -- after winning re-election in March. The Chinese Foreign Ministry said the partnership for cooperation between the two countries will become more substantial under his leadership.

GENG SHUANG, SPOKESPERSON CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY "China wants to express its heartfelt congratulations in advance to President Putin. Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent his congratulations to President Putin. We believe, under the leadership of President Putin, Russia will make greater achievements in its social economic development. With the two leaders working closely together, bilateral relations have developed great momentum. Both China and Russia have entered a key stage of national development. We believe under the leadership of the two heads of state, the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership for coordination will become more substantial."