Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev announced Putin’s visit, adding that the West’s attempt to contain both Russia and China should deepen cooperation between the two powers, Reuters reported.
“In October, we look forward to thorough bilateral talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing,” Patrushev was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying at a meeting in Moscow with China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi.
Putin will attend the third Belt and Road Forum after an invitation by Xi during a high-profile visit to Moscow in March.
The Kremlin said that the International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant issued against the Russian president was evidence of the West’s hostility to Russia, which opened a criminal case against the ICC prosecutor and judges who issued the warrant.
Patrushev said Russia wanted to develop ties with China.
“Russia is committed to the progressive development and strengthening of Russian-Chinese relations,” Patrushev said, adding that the two powers had a “comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation”.
MNA/PR