From Asia Times (link):
This Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin is to make an official state visit to China. Putin will arrive in time to witness China’s Year of Russia ceremony, kicking off a year-long festival with the aim of encouraging improved cultural relations between the two countries.
Putin’s visit to China is further evidence of the intensifying ties between Moscow and Beijing, with Liu Guchang, China’s ambassador to Russia, describing the bilateral relationship in recent days as reaching an “unprecedented high level”.
Both countries find it in their strategic interests to improve relations. This enhanced relationship is manifest in their participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the strengthening of their military relationship, improved economic ties, and substantial energy commitments.
