President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping

China to actively contribute to Russia’s BRICS Presidency

Russia and China expressed support for the continuing development of cooperation mechanisms within BRICS in a statement released after talks between President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping in Moscow.

"The parties believe that the BRICS countries should act in the spirit of openness, inclusivity, cooperation and mutual benefit, work together in all areas, and strengthen their partnership. In the near future, they need to complete preparations for the launch of the New Development Bank and the Contingency Reserve Arrangement," the statement reads.

The parties also intend to facilitate sustainable development in African countries. They are committed to deepening the dialogue and strategic cooperation between Africa and BRICS, and will discuss joint efforts toward this end.

"We are grateful to our Chinese friends for actively supporting Russia's Presidency in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, as well as contributing to preparations for the July summits of these organisations in Ufa, Russia," Vladimir Putin said after the talks.

Xi Jinping noted that BRICS, the SCO and other multilateral associations can make a real difference. "China fully supports Russia's SCO and BRICS presidencies in this year. We stand ready to work with Russia to ensure that these two mechanisms make an even greater contribution to the causes of regional and global peace, development, and prosperity," President Xi said.