President Xi Jinping's state visit to Russia, Tanzania, South Africa and the Republic of Congo, and his participation in the fifth BRICS summit in Durban has sparked speculation over China's diplomatic inclinations among some circles overseas.

Many believe Xi's first foreign trip after becoming president highlights China's diplomatic priority. This has given rise to different interpretations about Beijing's foreign policy leanings and response to international events.

That Russia was chosen as the first stop for Xi's weeklong visit shows the great importance China's new leadership attaches to developing ties with the world's major powers as well as neighboring countries.