Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his intention to consider China for his first overseas trip during his new presidential term, which he secured in the weekend election. This statement comes following reports that Putin is planning to travel to China in May for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, potentially marking his first international visit since re-election.
During a meeting with parliamentary factions, the leader of the Communist Party, Gennady Zyuganov, suggested to Putin that he should choose Beijing for his inaugural trip. Putin responded positively to Zyuganov's suggestion, promising to consider it seriously.
While Western governments have criticized Putin's election victory as unfair and undemocratic, China and North Korea have extended congratulations to him for his reelection, reflecting the close relationship between Russia and these countries.
