On December 29, 2008, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi held a telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

Yang said the Sino-Russian strategic cooperative partnership has reaped fruitful achievements in 2008 and the growth of Sino-Russian ties has benefited the two peoples and contributed significantly to maintaining world peace and stability. In 2009, the two countries will celebrate the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic ties and the Year of the Russian Language is to be held in China. China is ready to avail itself of the opportunity to further enhance high-level visits between both sides and bilateral exchanges and coordination on major issues, Yang said. Yang pledged further efforts to enhance friendship and mutual, strengthen cooperation and promote the Sino-Russian strategic cooperative partnership.

For his part, Lavrov praised the development of Russia-China relations, adding that Russia is willing to work closely with China and ensure the success of the important activities scheduled by the two countries for 2009. He also pledged that Russia is ready to continue efforts to push forward the strategic coordination and practical cooperation with China.

Both sides also exchanged views on issues of common concern, including the current situation in South Asia.