In May 2015, the countries reached consensus on linking the Belt and Road Initiative to the Eurasian Economic Union.

Xi said that in the next stage, China is ready to work with Russia to yield more fruit, deepen pragmatic cooperation with the Eurasian Economic Union and promote the implementation of major projects. Putin agreed with Xi's call for such projects.

Premier Li Keqiang also met with Putin later in the day.

During that meeting, Li said the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Russia has brought a high-level of development.

China is willing to deepen its cooperation with Russia in such fields as finance, regional development, agriculture, energy and civil aviation, the premier said.

A new cooperation pattern featuring the driving forces of major projects, and small and medium-size enterprises should be created.

In addition, people-to-people and cultural exchanges should be promoted to enhance cooperation between nations, Li said.

zhangyunbi@chinadaily.com.cn