“On New Year’s Eve, I would like to extend my congratulations and best wishes to you and the friendly Russian nation both personally and on behalf of the government and people of China.
“This past year has seen a strong upward trend in the Sino-Russian relationship. We have witnessed close high- and highest-level contacts, and effective operation of all consultation and cooperation mechanisms. Both parties continued to implement the principles and the spirit of the Sino-Russian Neighbourliness, Friendship and Cooperation Treaty. The Year of Russia in China was a very important event; practical cooperation in political, trade, economic, scientific, technological, humanitarian and other areas, and strategic relationship in regional affairs and on the international scene have been greatly promoted. All this means that the bilateral relationship is at a new stage now.
“The coming year is likely to see more important meetings and major events. One example is the Year of China in Russia, where we both will attend the opening ceremony. I am sure that the great support and assistance from the Russian side will help make the Year of China an astounding success, contributing to ever-stronger traditional friendship between the two peoples and promoting further bilateral relationships.
“In the coming year, China, together with Russia, intends to make an effort to fortify political trust, enhance practical cooperation in all spheres, add to the already dynamic and favorable momentum of the Sino-Russian partnership and strategic interaction, and help support sustainable peace and prosperity in the region and around the globe.
“I would like to wish health and Happy New Year to you and your family, prosperity and greatness to Russia, and happiness to the Russian people.
“I also hope the future will add more positive results to the legacy of neighbourliness, friendship, and strategic relationship between China and Russia.”