Putin, Xi hold talks in Moscow amid Victory Day celebrations

MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin is continuing a four-day series of meetings with foreign leaders visiting Moscow in conjunction with Victory Day celebrations, TASS news agency reported.

On Thursday, Putin is scheduled to hold official talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is in Russia for an official visit.

This will mark the third exchange between the two leaders this year, following a video conference in January and a telephone conversation in late February.

According to the Kremlin press service, discussions will centre on the deepening of the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership, with strategic consultations expected on key international and regional issues.

Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov said the leaders will focus on projects such as the Power of Siberia-2 gas pipeline and are also expected to touch on Ukraine and Russia-US relations.

Putin and Xi are expected to sign two joint statements -- one on strategic stability and another on further strengthening the comprehensive partnership -- and will address the media following the talks.

The visit is also set to produce several intergovernmental and inter-ministerial agreements.

Later on Thursday, Putin will host a reception at the Grand Kremlin Palace for all foreign delegations attending the Victory Day commemorations.

The event will include a musical performance and an official dinner, with Xi among the attendees.

Meetings with other foreign leaders will continue on May 9-10. A total of 27 foreign leaders are expected to be in Moscow on May 9.

-- BERNAMA