Russia will continue its cooperation with China in the military and military technology sector, according to Putin.
The leaders attended the opening ceremony of the Year of China in Russia, which is a reciprocal event to the Year of Russia marked in China last year.
Both events were agreed upon during Hu's visit to Russia in July 2005.
The Year of China in Russia will see some 200 activities to enhance exchanges and understanding between the two countries in various areas.
Hu's three-day state visit will also take him to the city of Kazan.