21st November 2023 – (Beijing) Zhao Leji, the Chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, held talks with Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the Russian State Duma, in Beijing. During the meeting, Zhao emphasised the importance of enhancing exchanges between the legislative bodies of China and Russia. The talks aimed to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries and deepen bilateral cooperation. The discussions highlighted the significance of political mutual trust, practical collaboration, and people-to-people exchanges, setting an example for major-country relations.
Zhao underscored the significance of maintaining the correct progressive direction of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era. Under the strategic guidance of the top leaders of both countries, political mutual trust has been continuously strengthened, practical cooperation has been vigorously carried out, and sub-national and people-to-people exchanges have deepened. Zhao emphasised the need for China and Russia to work together to consolidate and develop comprehensive strategic cooperation, bringing benefits to both nations and safeguarding international fairness and justice.
Zhao highlighted the importance of promoting synergy between Belt and Road cooperation and the Eurasian Economic Union. The two sides should aim for more practical cooperation outcomes and further advance cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BRICS, and other mechanisms. Zhao stressed that the China-Russia committee for parliamentary cooperation serves as a solid and effective platform for enhancing political mutual trust, promoting practical collaboration, and fostering friendship between the two nations. The NPC of China expressed its willingness to work closely with the Russian Federation Council to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of both countries.
Zhao emphasised the need to strengthen exchanges and cooperation at various levels and in various fields. Utilizing exchange mechanisms, special committees, bilateral friendship groups, and other platforms, the NPC of China aims to deepen legislative exchanges and promote the development of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era. Zhao also highlighted the importance of sharing foreign-related legislative experiences.
Volodin reiterated Russia’s firm commitment to the one-China principle and expressed the support of all parties and groups within the Russian State Duma for the continuous development of friendly relations with China. The Russian State Duma expressed its willingness to work jointly with the NPC of China to leverage the positive role of the Russia-China committee for parliamentary cooperation. They aim to provide a legal guarantee for the advancement of practical bilateral cooperation and contribute to the development of Russia-China relations.