September 24th, 2004, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and Russian Prime Minister Fradkov attended the ceremony marking the signing of an initial agreement on concluding the bilateral talks on Russia's accession to WTO.

The signing ceremony of the initial agreement, initiated by Premier Wen Jiabao, was held in the Round Hall of President Hotel in Moscow. More than a dozen journalists from international medias witnessed this historical moment.

Premier Wen Jiabao said when he answered the questions of the journalists that bilateral talk on Russia's accession to WTO is an important agenda during the Ninth Regular Meeting between the Chinese Premier and Russian Prime Minister. Both sides had indicated in clearly cut terms that the negotiation on Russia's accession to WTO had been successfully concluded, the initial agreement could be signed as soon as possible and the final agreement could be soon be signed by the two heads of states.

Prime Minister Fradkov indicated that after a large amount preparation by experts, both sides agree that they can enter into a final agreement on Russia's accession to WTO. He stated that this is an important and responsible decision.

Premier Wen Jiaao said that this was a meeting of historical importance. The two sides have conducted a two-hour meeting in a hospitable, friendly and practical atmosphere. He added that both sides had reached consensus on almost all items and a series of agreements have been signed, which indicated the fruitful achievements of China-Russia cooperation.

Premier Wen Jiabao paid a formal visit to Russia at the invitation of Prime Minister Fradkov. He arrived in Moscow on September 23rd. During his visit, Premier Wen Jiabao had the Ninth Regular Meeting with Prime Minister Fradkov and had extensive contacts with Russians from various circles. He will return to China on September 25th.