Russian Ambassador to China Igor Morgulov Photo: Courtesy of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in China

The past year was marked by the 80th anniversary of our shared Victory - 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. The combat brotherhood between our people, who contributed decisively to crushing German fascism and Japanese militarism, will forever remain one of the key pillars of the bilateral strategic partnership, which today serves as a vital stabilizing factor in the international affairs.

Economic ties between the two countries continue to develop dynamically. For the third year running, mutual trade has confidently surpassed the $200 billion target set by the leaders. In the year ahead, we will continue to work together to further unlock the immense potential practical cooperation holds, both in traditional sectors and emerging high-tech industries. 

Following the Russia-China Years of Culture, which concluded successfully in 2025 and featured over 400 vibrant events, the heads of our two states declared 2026-2027 the cross Years of Education. Joint efforts in this area have yielded positive results, with the total number of exchange students surpassing 77,000 in 2025 and poised to increase further. The introduction of the mutual visa-free regime last year has also created a strong momentum for expanding our ties in humanitarian and other fields, as travel figures have already reached record high.  

A horse holds a special place in both Russian and Chinese cultures. Many people of my country revere it as an indispensable companion and faithful helper, the domestic animal closest to human. In Chinese tradition, it represents success, speed, and unwavering advancement, as captured in the idioms 马到成功 (win instant success), 一马当先(gallop at the head),策马奔腾(charging forward toward bigger goals and wider horizons). 

I am confident that in the upcoming lunar year, together with our Chinese partners we will bring to life most ambitious endeavors, further strengthening the bonds of traditional friendship and strategic interaction between our nations.



Global Times