Chinese President Xi Jinping's trip to Russia as well as Kazakhstan and Belarus is set to strengthen the country's diplomatic relationships. (Photo : Reuters)
Due to China's proposed "Belt and Road Initiative," experts predict that the world will see an increase in bilateral economic cooperation between China and its neighbors Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus.
These three countries all play significant roles in the China-proposed initiative. President Xi Jinping is scheduled to visit the countries from this week.
The Belt and Road Initiative, more known as the Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, is aimed to strengthen China's ties, both economic and cultural, with its neighboring countries.
President Xi arrived in Russia on Friday, May 8, for a three-day state visit. The Chinese head of state is expected to discuss and sign a joint statement on stronger Sino-Russian ties with the Russian president, Vladimir Putin.
According to Vice Foreign Minister Cheng Guoping, the two state leaders will also discuss the development of a Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union, and the possible docking of Russia's idea for a Eurasian trade and infrastructure network with China's Silk Road Economic Belt.
The two countries enjoy strong trade and economic ties with each other. Russia trades most with China, its largest trading partner.
Aside from stronger economic ties, the two leaders are also seeking to strengthen their relationship in the infrastructure, construction, trade, and energy sectors. An increase in cultural and educational exchanges is also planned.
Before his state visit in Russia, President Xi stopped by Kazakhstan to discuss the latter's role on the joint Belt and Road construction and other major projects. China has also promised to help Kazakhstan improve its logistics, modern transportation and foreign trade industry.
Once Xi wraps up his three-day trip in Russia, the Chinese president will head to Belarus for a two-day visit. According to Vice Foreign Minister Cheng, the two nations will sign various cooperation documents on matters such as customs, education and culture, and economic and trade.
For the first time in 14 years, Belarus is being visited by a Chinese president.
