Russian deputy premier to talk with PD netizens

At the invitation of People's Daily Online (people.com.cn) and the Russian News & Information Agency (rusnews.cn), Russia's First Deputy Prime Minister Dmitri Medvedev will talk with netizens on the "Strong Country Forum" on People's Daily Online. He will answer questions concerning China-Russian relations and the celebrations for the Years of Russia and China in each country.

The online interview, scheduled at 18:00 (13:00 Moscow time) on February 2, is being held following the conclusion of the Year of Russia in China (2006) and the opening of the Year of China in Russia (2007). Medvedev is the chairman of the organizing committee for the Year of China in Russia.

Since the website announced the event it has received more that 40,000 hits from Chinese netizens who have made over 200 posts, raising questions about politics, economics, culture, society, education, military and science. The topics of most concern were economic and trade cooperation and the future of China-Russia ties.

A significant number of netizens believe that economic cooperation benefits bilateral ties significantly and hope for closer and wider cooperation.

One reader said his friend went to Russia last year. There he contracted a piece of land and grew vegetables from which he made a handsome profit. He hopes such exchanges will be supported by the deputy premier. Some readers are worried about the legitimate interests of Chinese businessmen in Russia. A netizen of the name "Muguang Lianyi" believes Chinese businessmen risk being elbowed out of the Russian market, and wants to discuss this issue with the deputy premier. Many netizens show interest in the future of the relationship between China and Russia. Some want to know the significance of the Year of Russia in bilateral ties and some expect suggestions from the deputy premier for the friendly co-existence of the two countries. "Zhi Bo" asked how Russia felt about China building a harmonious society. Many netizens are optimistic about bilateral ties and a more trusting relationship will evolve, and that both countries will become forces in safeguarding world peace.

Russia's past and present conditions and Medvedev's personal experiences were also focuses of attention. Some netizens wanted to know more about Russian democracy, political elections, corruption issues, public security and diplomatic strategies. Others showed interest in the deputy premier's work, family life and political views.

Medvedev will be the highest-ranking foreign guest to appear on Chinese online media.

By People's Daily Online