Vladimir Putin's remarks:

Good afternoon, Mr Wen Jiabao, friends and colleagues,

It is a pleasure to greet you here once again.

Mr Wen Jiabao and I have just exchanged opinions on key areas of Russian-Chinese relations and the most urgent global issues. We particularly focused on the current global economic and financial situation.

Addressing the Economic Council, Mr Wen Jiabao mentioned several very important issues, one of which was that the basis for developing relations between our countries is mutual trust. The Russian-Chinese relations have gained stability. The two countries' comprehensive partnership continues to grow, fueled by mutual trust and interaction. I am positive that the visit paid by Mr Wen Jiabao and such a representative Chinese delegation will further strengthen the strategic partnership between the Russian Federation and People's Republic of China.

Wen Jiabao's remarks:

Mr Prime Minister,

We have just had friendly and comprehensive talks with you. We view the Russian-Chinese relationship on a strategic level. We have reached mutual understanding on a number of key issues of bilateral relations. I should add that next year China and Russia will celebrate the 60th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations.

Russia was the first country which recognized China's independence. We will use every opportunity to continue expanding our relations in the upcoming year. The events that took place during the Year of Russia in China in 2006 and the Year of China in Russia in 2007 was a great beginning. They contributed to promoting mutual understanding and friendship between out peoples. The Year of the Russian Language in 2009 and the Year of the Chinese Language in 2010 are expected to become important events of people's diplomacy aimed to strengthen the social basis for our partnership.