China, Belarus sign deal to enhance ties

China and Belarus hammered out a five-year bilateral-cooperation agreement on Jan 20.

After meeting in Beijing, Premier Li Keqiang and visiting Belarusian Prime Minister Mikhail Myasnikovich signed a roadmap from 2014 to 2018 to carry forward the comprehensive partnership between the countries.

They also agreed to set up an intergovernmental commission at the deputy premier level that will be dedicated to carrying out the roadmap.

Li extended his sincere thanks at the beginning of the meeting to Myasnikovich for his contribution to the development of bilateral relations.

Myasnikovich was awarded the Friendship Award in 2011 for his contribution to Sino-Belarusian relations. The Friendship Award is the top award that the Chinese government presents a foreigner.

Myasnikovich said he believes his visit will inject new incentives to Sino-Belarusian relations.

Monday marks the 22th anniversary of the two countries' establishing diplomatic ties.

Developing relations with China and expanding cooperation are priorities in Belarus' foreign policy. The Eastern European country enhanced its relationship with China with a comprehensive strategic partnership in July, when Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko visited China.

Myasnikovich's visit will continue until Jan 23.