China eyes Russian helicopter cooperation

KAZAN, Russia - With large market demands for helicopters, China welcomes further technical cooperation with Russia in that regard, visiting Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan said here on Thursday.

Wang said that Russia enjoys unique advantages in helicopter research and development as well as in manufacturing, and the two nations have great potential for cooperation in the field.

Wang said during a visit to the Kazan helicopter plant that China has recently purchased some highland helicopters from Russia and a Sino-Russian aviation cooperation committee is currently making joint efforts in developing new heavy-lift helicopters.

The vice premier said Russian experts are welcome to visit China and explore market opportunities there.

The Kazan helicopter plant's leader said the plant has built long-term and sound business ties with China and is willing to deepen the mutually beneficial cooperation with Chinese companies.

Wang started his visit to Russia on Monday and attended the seventh round of the Sino-Russian energy negotiators' meeting.

During his stay, Wang also met with Prime Minister Vladimir Putin in Moscow. After the meeting, the two sides signed a document on gas cooperation.

(Xinhua)