Russia's presidential election

China was happy to see that Russia held a smooth presidential election, said Qin.

Chinese President Hu Jintao Monday congratulated Dmitry Medvedev during a telephone conversation on his victory in Russia's presidential election.

Qin said the result of Russia's presidential election proved again that Russia's development path and domestic and foreign policies gained broad support by the Russian people.

China believed that under the leadership of Medvedev, Russia would make greater achievements in national development and more contribution to world peace and common development, Qin said.

China was ready to work with Russia to carry forward the principles of Sino-Russian Good-Neighborly Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, and to push forward the two countries' strategic partnership of coordination.

Medvedev, first deputy prime minister of Russian President Vladimir Putin's cabinet, won a landslide victory in Sunday's presidential election.

IOC regulations believed to be abided by athletes

China believes that athletes from various countries for the Beijing Olympic Games can abide by relevant regulations on propaganda activities made by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), said Qin.

Qin made the remarks when asked what China's stance would be if athletes conduct political propaganda during the Beijing Olympic Games in August.

Qin said, the Olympic Charter has clear stipulation on propaganda activities during the Olympic Games, noting that the Section 51 of the Charter forbids any kind of demonstration, or political, religious or racial propaganda in the Olympic sites, venues and other areas.

Qin said China welcomes athletes from various countries to participate in the Beijing Olympic Games and hopes they can increase mutual understanding and friendship through the games.

(Xinhua News Agency March 5, 2008)