china

 
Vladimir Putin has confirmed that Russia does not object to selling further energy resources to China.
“We discussed the possibility of using our national currency in bilateral settlements between Russia and China, and our energy companies raised this issue, even Gazprom. In principle, we do not object to considering the possibility of selling our energy resources for roubles,” Putin stated after the end of his official visit to China today (14 oct 09).

Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is hoping to line up more than 30 contracts worth $5.5 billion, relating to communications, transport, and energy, during his trip to China this week.
 
Over the last 6 years, trade between the two countries has risen to over $50 billion per annum, and the Kremlin is keen to build on this as it struggles with an economic decline set to reach 7.5% this year - far worse than initially predicted.
 

Russia's relationship with China is becoming increasingly interesting, especially in the light of the looming environmental crisis on China’s borders.