China, Russia pledge to prioritize bilateral ties

President Hu Jintao and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin agreed on Tuesday to boost the comprehensive partnership of strategic coordination between their countries and reaffirm the commitment to safeguarding world peace, security and stability.

"China hopes to work closely with Russia to implement the blueprint for developing bilateral ties in the next 10 years, and improve strategic coordination in global and regional affairs," Hu told Putin in their two-hour-long talks at the Great Hall of the People.

Applauding the "unprecedented" strength of Russia-China relations, Putin said the two countries enjoy broad common interests and high strategic trust.

China is not only Russia's good friend, but also a reliable partner on the global stage, said Putin, who kicked off his three-day China visit earlier Tuesday, his first to Asia since starting a third term last month.

Regarding the international situation, Hu said that against the backdrop of in-depth development of multi-polarization and economic globalization, destabilizing factors and uncertainties are on the rise.

"China and Russia face both important opportunities and challenges in development," he said, calling on strengthened support for each other and expanded all-round cooperation.

Putin hailed the successful joint maritime drill last month in the Yellow Sea off China's eastern coast, adding the two countries have kept close coordination on major global issues, and contributed to building a just and reasonable international new order.

He reaffirmed commitment to stronger ties with China.

Before their talks, Hu held a red-carpet ceremony for Putin's visit.

Putin is scheduled to attend the 12th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization slated for June 6-7 in Beijing.

During his stay, the Russian president will also meet with other Chinese leaders, including Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress; Premier Wen Jiabao; Vice President Xi Jinping and Vice Premier Li Keqiang.