BEIJING, China – Russia and China have pledged to strengthen parliamentary cooperation and advance agreements reached by their respective presidents, as senior lawmakers from both countries held talks in Beijing amid efforts to deepen bilateral relations.
The discussions took place on November 2, following the arrival of a Russian Federation Council delegation, led by its Speaker, Valentina Matvienko, in the People’s Republic of China on November 1.
Matvienko met Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress, at the Great Hall of the People, where the two sides reviewed their parliamentary relationship and explored opportunities to expand cooperation across several sectors.
According to Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both officials recognised that consistent and productive engagement between their legislative institutions reflects the strong level of cooperation between Moscow and Beijing.
They also pointed to the close relationship maintained by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose meetings in Beijing and Bishkek this year produced important agreements that continue to guide cooperation between the two countries.
The two leaders are expected to meet again on the sidelines of an upcoming summit in Shenzhen.
During the meeting, Matvienko briefed her Chinese counterpart on the outcome of Russia’s recent parliamentary elections and conveyed the commitment of Russian legislators to maintaining constructive engagement with their Chinese counterparts.
Both delegations expressed their readiness to provide the necessary legislative backing to ensure that agreements reached at the highest political level are fully implemented.
The discussions also covered the broader Russia-China comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation, with lawmakers examining ways in which parliamentary engagement could contribute to advancing shared priorities.
Economic relations featured prominently, with the officials discussing opportunities to expand trade and economic cooperation, strengthen connections between regions and increase humanitarian exchanges.
They also considered ways to encourage greater interaction among young people, particularly through the Years of Russia-China Cooperation in Education scheduled for 2026 and 2027.
Beyond the formal discussions, Matvienko participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Monument to the People’s Heroes in Tiananmen Square ahead of the meeting.
Her programme in Beijing also included visits to the China Soong Ching Ling Science and Culture Centre for Young People and the National Art Museum of China.
Leave a comment