Wang to visit Russia, Belarus

Vice-President Wang Qishan attends the Third Forum on China-Africa Local Government Cooperation in Beijing on May 8. More than 400 people attended the forum. Wang Zhuangfei / China Daily

　　Vice-President Wang Qishan will attend the 22nd St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in Russia and visit Belarus from Thursday to May 29, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said on Monday.

　　The visit is Wang's first since he was elected vice-president. He is also a member of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

　　While attending the forum, Wang will exchange with Russian leaders in-depth views on bilateral relations and talk about major issues that concern both nations, Lu said at a news briefing.

　　The forum known around the world for discussions on international economic and financial situations. It also plays an important role in promoting cooperation in areas like trade and investment between China and Russia, Lu said in an earlier news conference.

　　The visit will enhance high-level exchanges between both sides, deepen bilateral cooperation and push forward the China-Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Coordination, Lu said.

　　After attending the forum in Russia, Wang will travel to Belarus, exchange opinions with leaders there on bilateral ties and visit the China-Belarus Industrial Park, a special economic zone developed within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, according to Lu.

　　He predicted Wang's visit will create a good atmosphere for a meeting in June between the heads of state of both nations that will happen on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Qingdao.