France, May 19 -- During the trip, the Russian leader was due to discuss with Chinese President Xi Jinping how to "further strengthen the comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation" between Moscow and Beijing, the Kremlin said.

Putin and Xi were also expected to "exchange views on key international and regional issues" and sign a joint declaration after their talks, the Kremlin added.

Putin was also scheduled to discuss economic and trade cooperation with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

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The visit comes during the 25th anniversary year of the 2001 China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation and Friendly Cooperation and the foundin...