Russian President Vladimir Putin is making an important visit to Beijing, the capital of China, on May 19-20. According to Kremlin official Yury Ushakov, the most notable moment of the visit will be the tea ceremony hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping. In this special setting, the two leaders plan to discuss current international issues. The visit program is quite busy; it includes meetings with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, the opening of the intercultural education year, and a tour of the TASS-Xinhua joint exhibition reflecting the history of Russia-China relations.
Additionally, the meeting with young Chinese engineer Peng Pai also draws attention within the protocol. Putin was welcomed with an official ceremony at Beijing Airport; Russian and Chinese flags were raised, an honor guard was present, and he was enthusiastically greeted by Chinese children and students. The Russian leader proceeded to the state residence using his own license-plated private car. This visit raises curiosity about the new directions in which diplomatic and cultural relations between Russia and China will evolve.