Enhancing Mutual Understanding

　　This year marks the "Year of Russia" in China and Russia will hold the "Year of China" in 2007. The activities will be of the largest scale ever held between the Chinese and Russian governments.

　　Regarding this, Russian Ambassador to China Sergey Razov recently accepted an exclusive interview by People's Daily Overseas Edition.

　　Reporter: China holds the "Year of Russia" in 2006 and Russia will hold the "Year of China" in 2007. What kinds of activities are to be held between the two sides in the areas of economy, culture and education? How is the preparation work proceeding and are there highlights to be expected?

　　Ambassador: Leaders of the two countries proposed the idea of holding the "Year of Russia" in China and the "Year of China in Russia", primarily to expand exchange and deepen understanding between the two peoples. This is in accordance with the spirit and clauses of the Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation (we plan to celebrate this year the 5th anniversary of the signing of this treaty), as well as the treaty implementation outlines (2005-2008).

　　We are experienced in this respect since we have held the "Year of Youth Friendship" in 2004, organized many times "Russian Cultural Week" and "Chinese Cultural Week". But such a large scale and long-lasting activity is unprecedented in the history of the two countries' relationship.

　　China's "Year of Russia" and Russia's "Year of China" have their own features. First, it isn't a culture year. Activities in Russia involve various aspects such as politics, economy, culture, industry, scientific research and social life. Many people are expected to participate and most activities are geared toward ordinary people.

　　An organizing committee has bee formed in Russia headed by First Vice Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, which has started operation. There is a counterpart committee in China headed by Chinese Vice Premier Wu Yi.

　　There are over 250 activities planned. The first month will see more than 20. China's "Year of Russia" will be opened in March when President Putin pays an official visit to China. Some large activities will also be held this year. For example, the Russian culture festival, Russian expo, exhibitions and promotions by different regions of Russia, investment week, large concerts, scientific and technological seminars, Russian painting exhibition, industrial design exhibition, book fair, sports contests, education exhibitions and road shows of various art troupes, etc.

　　Reporter: What is the significance of the planned "Year of Russia" and "Year of China" for the development of China-Russia relations? How will the bilateral relations develop in the foreseeable future?

　　Ambassador: Speaking of priorities and important tasks, I believe it is very important to further consolidate the Russia-China strategic partnership as well as to collaborate in various aspects and implement the significant agreements reached by leaders of the two countries. I believe China's "Year of Russia" and Russia's "Year of China" are bound to promote fulfillment of proposed tasks and can enhance mutual trust and collaboration.

　　President Putin and President Hu singled out breakthrough in the development of the bilateral trade and economic relations as the most important task. Intensive and coordinated work with clear objective should be launched in the central governments and local governments as well as businesses in the two countries.