Chinese President Xi to visit Russia, 3 African countries

Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Russia, Tanzania, South Africa and the Republic of the Congo from March 22 to March 30, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said Monday. Xi took office last week.

In South Africa, Xi is also scheduled to attend the fifth BRICs summit in Durban, Hong said in a press briefing in Beijing. BRICs stands for Brazil, Russia, India, and China - the four nations emerging as new economic powerhouse.

Xi will visit Moscow from March 22-24 for a summit with Russian President Vladmir Putin, Kremlin said on the same day.

The two leaders are expected to discuss ways of expanding cooperation in economy/trade, energy/investment and technology between the two countries.

Xi will also meet with Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev to discuss ways to boost bilateral cooperation.

The Chinese president will be accompanied by first lady Peng Liyuan on his visit to the four countries, Chinese government sources said. Peng is a Chinese folk music singer.

Park Sae-jin swatchsjp@ajunews.com