His message to President Hu said, in part:
“Permanent fruitful contacts at the highest level are traditionally prominent in the development of Russian-Chinese relations. Of great importance in this connection was your state visit to Russia in May 2003, which confirmed our countries’ orientation on strategic partnership on the firm basis of the Treaty of July 16, 2001.
“I cherish our political and personal contacts and look forward to seeing you again.”
The message to Mr Jiang said, in part:
“Russia cherishes traditional friendship and neighbourly confidence linking our two nations.
“I am sure that all-round strengthening of Russian-Chinese strategic partnership, one of whose architects you are, fully corresponds to the vital interests of our countries.”