Russia's ambassador to China, Andrey Denisov, on Tuesday (25 January) revealed that Moscow had been keeping Beijing informed on the content and progress of its security talks with the United States and Nato countries.
Denisov said the meetings were not related to China but “our Chinese friends are paying close attention to the talks”.“There’s no need to hide any content or subjects in these diplomatic efforts,” he said.
The South China Morning Post reported on Wednesday that Denisov also said there could be a “surprise” gift for China-Russia ties when Putin visits Beijing for the Winter Olympics next week, without giving details.
Putin was quick to confirm his attendance at the Games’ opening ceremony on February 4. He will be among a small number of leaders expected to attend the event in person amid the coronavirus pandemic and a diplomatic boycott by countries including the US, Britain, Canada and Australia over China’s human rights record.
China’s ambassador to Russia, Zhang Hanhui, has welcomed Putin’s visit and highlighted the friendship between the two countries. Writing in official Russian newspaper Rossiyskaya Gazeta on Tuesday, the envoy said Putin’s trip to China would “further enhance political mutual trust … deepen mutually beneficial cooperation” and add “bright colour” to the Games.
Zhang also said the nations planned more cultural and sports exchanges, including the “China-Russia Sports Exchange Year from 2022 to 2023”.
