New Chinese leader selects Moscow as first foreign destination

China’s new leader Xi Jinping plans to travel to Moscow in his first foreign visit since being elected president late last year.

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi made the announcement during a recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“Russia-China relations have a huge impact on world peace and development. Russia is willing to make joint efforts with China in further promoting bilateral relations to a new level,” Putin said.

Analysts have highlighted the significance of Xi’s choice of Russia as the first foreign destination since it follows a shift in US President Barack Obama’s stance toward Asia. Beijing views the US military pivot in Asia and an increase in Washington’s arms sales to Asian allies as an effort to contain China.

The visit is meant to solidify the ties between Beijing and Moscow before a scheduled meeting between the Chinese and US leaders later in the year.

Analysts also say that China will be seeking Russia’s support in its dispute with Japan, a US ally, over the East China Sea islands.

Russia was also the first foreign host of the new Chinese ruler’s predecessor Hu Jintao.

Xi’s trip to Russia will immediately be followed by a visit to South Africa for a summit of representatives from leading emerging-market countries.

Xi was China’s Vice President before he succeeded President Hu Jintao. The leadership change in China takes place every 10 years.