China, Russia to deepen partnership
President Xi Jinping has pledged to work with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to "rejuvenate" their countries as the pair started a day of talks in Beijing. Putin, for his part, said he was grateful to China for trying to resolve the crisis over Ukraine, adding that he would brief Xi on the situation there. “China hopes for the early return of Europe to peace and stability and will continue to play a constructive role toward this,” Xi said, speaking alongside Putin. Beijing last year offered a broad plan for peace outlining general principles for ending the war in Ukraine. The two leaders also signed a joint statement on deepening China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties. "The China-Russia relationship today is hard-earned, and the two sides need to cherish and nurture it," Xi said. "China is willing to... jointly achieve the development and rejuvenation of our respective countries, and work together to uphold fairness and justice in the world." Xi added that the two countries will continue to uphold a position of non-alliance and non-confrontation. The Russian leader told Xi that their co-operation was a stabilising factor. "It is of crucial significance that relations between Russia and China are not opportunistic and are not directed against anyone," Russia's RIA Novosti news agency cited Putin as saying. Putin on Thursday began a two-day state visit to China that will include detailed talks on Ukraine, Asia, energy and trade with Xi. Putin will also meet with Premier Li Qiang and visit the northeastern city of Harbin. (Agencies)