Vladimir Putin speak about Russia-China cooperation within the BRICS framework during the annual press conference

On December 14, Vladimir Putin held his annual direct line and press conference in Moscow, during which the Russian president summarised the results of the year. Putin, answering a question from a Xinhua reporter, said that the level of cooperation with China is "unprecedentedly high." Xinhua News Agency is a partner of TV BRICS.

Putin noted that trade turnover between China and Russia this year has already surpassed the figure of 200 billion U.S. dollars (17.87 trillion rubles).

"The growth of trade turnover this year is 30 per cent. <...> We are developing our economic ties in a variety of areas. What pleases me is the diversification of relations."

Putin said the countries are developing relations in infrastructure, high-tech areas, economic and humanitarian spheres.

The Russian leader said that one of the most important events of the year was Xi Jinping's visit in March, where the parties agreed to develop partnership in 8 areas. The countries are working intensively to fulfil the previously set tasks. Putin also explained what role the interaction and coordination of the two countries within BRICS has:

"As for BRICS and our role, this vector is intensifying. Namely, Russian-Chinese relations are one of the essential guarantors of stability in the world"

Vladimir Putin President of Russia

During his political career, Putin has spoken to Russians on air 15 times as president and four times as prime minister.