Xi honors Russia-China Friendship Association on anniversary

Chinese President Xi Jinping applauded the China-Russia people-to-people exchange and cultural communication, as the Russia-China Friendship Association marked its 60th founding anniversary on Monday.

In a congratulatory message, Xi said that over the past six decades, the Russia-China Friendship Association has adhered to the principle of friendship in managing relations with China, actively carried out people-to-people exchanges, and made significant contribution to promoting mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples.

Calling the association an important force in cementing and developing China-Russia ties, Xi stressed that the key to sound relations between states lies in amity between the people.

China-Russia relations have reached a new historical starting point, Xi said, expressing his hope that the association will open up a new chapter in promoting exchanges between the two peoples and make greater contribution to strengthening people-to-people bonds, fueling the development of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination at a high level.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also sent congratulations to the association.