Russian President Vladimir Putin meets Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu in Moscow © Thomson Reuters
Reuters: China defence minister to visit Russia, Belarus Aug 14-19
BEIJING (Reuters) -China's defence minister Li Shangfu will visit Russia and Belarus from Aug. 14-19, the ministry said in a statement on Monday.
While in Russia, Li will attend an international security meeting and make a speech there, according to the statement. He will also meet with leaders from Russia's national defence department.
During his visit to Belarus, he will meet with the Belarus' head of state and military. Li will also visit military departments in Belarus. China and Russia has strengthened military ties, conducting joint patrols and military exercises.
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WNU Editor: This trip was decided only in the past few weeks. This is also a six day trip, and that tells me that there is going to be a lot of talks on how China and Russia are going to deepen their military alliance. And while the media focus in Russia and China is on the speech that the Chinese defense minister will be making at an international security forum, his behind closed-door meetings with Russia's top military brass is where the real focus should be.
Chinese Defense Minister Heads To Visit Russia And Belarus For A Six-Day Visit
Chinese defense minister to visit Russia and Belarus in show of support despite West's objections -- AP
China’s defence chief Li Shangfu heads to Russia, Belarus on 6-day trip -- SCMP
Chinese defense minister to visit Russia and Belarus this week -- The New Voice of Ukraine
Defense minister to travel to Russia, Belarus during six-day trip -- China Daily