Putin has accepted Xi's invitation to come to China for the Beijing Winter Olympics, a move that will continue the tradition of the two nations celebrating major events together.

Xi said he has been looking forward to a face-to-face meeting with Putin, scheduled for the opening of the Winter Olympics in February, which he said would be an active show of support for China's hosting of the event.

With China and Russia set to host the Year of Sports Exchanges in 2022 and 2023, Xi said the two sides should use the events as opportunities to build bridges and bonds, which will enable the people of both countries to enhance their mutual understanding and friendship.