As reported by TASS on May 20, guests at a reception in honor of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to China were treated to a menu combining Asian and European dishes, alongside a musical program featuring classical works from both nations.
The official menu commenced with cold appetizers, followed by shrimp broth. The main courses included traditional Peking duck, beef in bean sauce, grouper fillet with passion fruit, Funjou noodles, and dried Qinghua ham with vegetables. For dessert and coffee, attendees enjoyed pumpkin puffs, chocolate brownies, fruits, ice cream, and locally produced dry wines: a 2016 Changyu white Chardonnay from Beijing and a 2009 Greatwall red Cabernet Sauvignon from Hebei province.
The event was also accompanied by a performance by the military orchestra of the People’s Liberation Army of China. The band presented “The Melody of the Beijing Opera” as well as Russian classical pieces, including “Polovtsian Dances,” “Dance of the Little Swans,” and “Dance of Reed Flutes.”
On May 20, during his official visit to China, Putin began talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in a private tea party. Only four members from each delegation attended the meeting. The two leaders signed 21 agreements, including a Statement on strengthening comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation. Putin noted that the agreements between Moscow and Beijing are aimed at economic collaboration, while Xi stated that bilateral trade has exceeded $200 billion for the third consecutive year.
