To develop the strategic cooperative partnership with China is an important decision of Russia's foreign policy, said Russian Former Prime Minister Yevgeny Maksimovich Primakov in Beijing Tuesday.

Primakov, honorary president of the Sino-Russian Friendship Committee for Peace and Development, spoke during a speech at a seminar held by China Institute for International Strategic Studies (CIISS).

He said the revival of Far East and Siberia region is significant for the economic interest of Russia and during the revival, Russia welcomes Chinese companies to invest in its industry.

Primakov also expounded on international strategic situations, relations among powerful nations and the foreign policies of Russia.

The seminar was held by Xiong Guangkai, deputy chief of general staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army and president of CIISS.

Primakov paid the visit at the invitation of the Sino-Russian Friendship Committee for Peace and Development.
 
(Xinhua News Agency September 10, 2003)