In his written speech released at Moscow airport, Zhang said that he will hold in-depth talks with Russian leaders on furthering the Sino-Russian partnership of strategic cooperation and on a wide range of issues of common concern.

To maintain and expand the partnership of strategic cooperation between China and Russia, the two biggest neighboring countries in the world, on the basis of equality and trust, conforms to the fundamental interests of the people of the two countries and helps to strengthen peace and stability in the Asian-Pacific region and in the whole world, Zhang stressed.

"Russia is a great country, and the Russian people are a great nation. I'm ready to deliver the Chinese people's best regards to the great Russian people. I wish Russia still greater achievements in the new century," the general said.

Among those greeting Zhang and his entourage at the airport were Deputy Russian Defense Minister Mikhail Dmitriyev and Chinese Ambassador to Russia Wu Tao.

(Xinhua 02/20/2001)