Through mutual visits, bilateral meetings, video conferences, and phone conversations, the two heads of state have, over the years, conducted frequent interactions in an in-depth and candid manner. They have also advanced bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields, such as economy, trade, investment, energy, science and technology, and people-to-people and cultural exchanges as well as local-level interactions.

During his meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Xi said the invitation was made during his informal meeting with Putin, and noted that Putin attended both of the previous two Belt and Road forums, stressing that the Belt and Road cooperation was important in connecting the two countries.

It fits the historical logic that Chinese leaders take Russia as a primary choice for their overseas visits, Xi said, adding that China and Russia are each other's biggest neighbors and comprehensive strategic partners.

Since the two sides established diplomatic ties 74 years ago, their people have worked together to create a better future and share the dividends of development. A synergy between the BRI and the Eurasian Economic Union, or EAEU, is a case in point.

The initial phase of talks between China and Russia over the coordination between the BRI and the EAEU concluded in May 2015 with the signing of a joint declaration for linking the two integration projects and creating a free-trade era.