In the open part of the conversation,

Putin

congratulated

Xi

on his re-election as the head of the People's Republic of China.

"Over the past years, China has made a tremendous leap forward in its development.

It arouses genuine interest all over the world, and we even envy you a little," Putin said.

The Russian president added that he had carefully studied Beijing's proposals for settling Russia's war with Ukraine.

According to Putin, the Russian authorities are open to the negotiation process.

Xi Jinping said that he chose Russia as the first country for a foreign visit after being re-elected as the leader of the People's Republic of China.

"I know that another presidential election will be held in your country next year.

Thanks to your strong leadership, Russia has made significant progress in achieving results and prosperity of the country in recent years.

I am sure that the Russian people will strongly support you in your good endeavors," said Xi.

The press secretary of the President of Russia,

Dmitry Peskov

, clarified that Xi Jinping did not talk about Putin's participation in the 2024 presidential elections.

"Chairman Xi expressed his confidence that Russians will support Putin, and here we can only share his confidence," said Peskov.

Xi Jinping's visit will last three days - until March 22.

Official negotiations will take place on Tuesday, March 21.

They will be held in narrow and extended formations.

The Kremlin previously confirmed that, in addition to bilateral issues, Putin and Xi will discuss China's plan for a peaceful settlement of the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

The document contains 12 points, including a ceasefire, the start of peace talks, respect for sovereignty and an end to unilateral sanctions.