The Federation Council Speaker discussed prospects for inter-parliamentary cooperation with Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China Zhao Leji.
Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matvienko met with Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China Zhao Leji. The Chinese delegation arrived in Russia to participate in the meeting of the Interparliamentary Commission on Cooperation of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation and the National People’s Congress of China, as well as the 10th BRICS Parliamentary Forum.
The Federation Council Speaker highlighted that the cornerstone for successful development of mutually beneficial cooperation between the two nations lies in the strategic leadership of President of Russia Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, and the deep political trust between them. She said that both countries are committed to strengthening ties and advancing comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction.
Zhao Leji emphasised that under the leadership of the two countries’ presidents, Chinese-Russian relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction are progressing dynamically. He noted, “Our multifaceted practical cooperation demonstrates resilience and vitality, setting an example for relations between major powers and neighbouring countries based on mutual respect.”
Valentina Matvienko reminded about the significance of 2024, noting that 1 October marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the PRC, followed by the celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Russia the next day. She remarked, “Over the years, our relationship has hardened living through challenging circumstances, stood the test of treacherous international situation, and has become a model for relations between major powers and neighbouring countries, characterised by mutual respect, friendship, and mutual benefit.”
Speaking about the development of parliamentary ties, Valentina Matvienko highlighted the active engagement across various communication formats. “We have exchanged legislative experiences and aligned our positions at diverse multilateral parliamentary forums. The Interparliamentary Commission serves as a pivotal dialogue platform for legislators, with its tenth meeting scheduled for 10 July,” she said.
She underscored the importance of bolstering ties between relevant committees and fostering dialogue of young parliamentarians.
She also proposed enhancing direct contacts between leaders and representatives of legislative authorities from Russian regions and Chinese provinces. “Interregional cooperation is a driver of growth for Russian-Chinese cooperation which has great potential. Today, the majority of Russian regions maintain ties with their Chinese partners, and the number of signed agreements exceeded one hundred.”
Valentina Matvienko sees cooperation within the BRICS framework as a promising avenue for advancing Russian-Chinese relations. “It is very important that we are strengthening our association through parliamentary channels as well.”
The interlocutors noted active interaction and coordinated efforts at various multilateral platforms, including the Inter-Parliamentary Union, G20 parliamentary meetings, and within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
They also discussed exchanges in education, tourism, issues of humanitarian and cultural cooperation. “The programme for the Years of Culture of Russia and China, inaugurated by the leaders of our two countries in Beijing this May, stands out for its originality and diversity,” noted the Federation Council Speaker.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council Konstantin Kosachev, Chair of the Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs Grigory Karasin, and First Deputy Chairs of the Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs Andrey Denisov and Sergei Kislyak.