On Nov. 24, 2010, Premier Wen Jiabao presented the awards of Outstanding Contributions to Sino-Russian Energy Cooperation and the awards of Contributions to Chinese Language and Culture to the builders of Sino-Russian crude oil pipeline and the representatives of Russian language and cultural circles in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the promotion of friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.

Wen said the construction of Sino-Russian crude oil pipeline is a brave political decision made by the leaders of the two countries from the perspectives of ensuring the long-term development of bilateral relations and the two countries. It also set a good model for Sino-Russian strategic collaboration featuring mutual benefits and win-win results. The long-term stable, secure, and reliable energy strategic partnership conforms to the common interests of both countries. In another month, Sino-Russian crude oil pipeline will officially supply oil. The opening and operation of the pipeline is of great significance to the economic development, strategic security, livelihood and well-being of the two countries. It was hoped that the oil workers of the two countries make persistent efforts in close coordination with related parties to ensure the timely, secure, efficient operation of the pipeline, make it an important link connecting the political, economic and security interests of the two countries and a bridge of friendship and cooperation, and jointly push the China-Russia energy cooperation to achieve new results.

Wen said that language teaching is a bridge linking the hearts of the people. The people spreading the Chinese and Russian languages and cultures play an important role in increasing mutual understanding and friendship between the people and have made positive contributions to the long-term, healthy and stable development of bilateral relations. The Chinese government will strengthen its efforts to support and expand the exchanges between universities, research institutions and youths and push cultural and people-to-people exchange and cooperation to achieve more results.

Vice Premier Wang Qishan, State Councilor Liu Yandong, and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Igor Sechin also attended the awarding ceremony.