China is ready to join efforts with Russian to continue to increase bilateral cooperation and exchanges in various fields so as to open up a new situation for Sino-Russian strategic partnership of cooperation, said Premier Wen Jiabao in Beijing Thursday.  

Wen made the remark during his meeting with visiting Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov, saying that the two countries, as neighbors to each other, should extend their long-term friendship, which is of practical and long-standing significance.

The development and prosperity of both countries will provide reciprocal opportunities to each other and contribute tremendously to the social development of the humanity, noted Wen.

Ivanov said Russia attaches high importance to its relations with China and will strengthen bilateral cooperation in the field of military technology so as to push Russia-China relations to a new, higher level.

Premier Wen also exchanged views with Ivanov on other issues of mutual concern.

(Xinhua News Agency April 23, 2004)