Russian Ambassador to China Igor Morgulov

Dear friends, I am glad to wish everyone happy Spring Festival, which in 2025 symbolizes the beginning of the Year of the Snake.

The old Year of the Dragon marked the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and China. Under the strategic leadership of President Vladimir Putin and President Xi Jinping, the Russian-Chinese comprehensive partnership and strate-gic cooperation has reached an unprecedented high level. The two leaders met in person three times last year, a substantial and confidential political dialogue ensures the progressive development of the entire complex of bilateral relations.

Economic ties demonstrate impressive dynamism. According to Chinese Customs statistics, bilateral trade turnover in 2024 amounted to $244.8 billion. For the second consecutive year, the goal set by the two Heads of State to reach the $200 billion mark in mutual trade has been significantly surpassed. I am confident that this year will also see our countries further reveal the rich potential of practical cooperation in all areas.

Russia and China maintain close coordination on the world stage. It allows us to jointly promote the common vision of the future world order based on the principles of sovereign equality of states, respect for the choice of development path and legitimate interests, thus, making our solid partnership one of the key factors of global strategic stability.

In 2025, we will widely celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War and the Victory of the Chinese people in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. As President Putin stated, "We were together then, and we are together now".

2025 consistently continues the Russia-China Years of Culture project, which gives the au-dience of both countries a lot of opportunities to enjoy performances of world class arts masters. No doubt, this year will bring us even more unforgettable cultural experiences.

Dear friends! The Chinese people say, plans for the day are made in the morning, while plans for the year are made in the spring. This Lunar year of the Snake, which is called the year of "double spring", promises to be auspicious, as the agricultural season "Lichun" ("Beginning of Spring") comes twice in the upcoming 12 months. I'm sure that together with Chinese partners we will realize even more ambitious plans to further consolidate our friendship and cooperation.

I wish good health and prosperity, and success in endeavors in the Year of the Snake! Happy Spring Festival!