The active people-to-people exchanges between China and Russia represent the harmonious relationship between the two countries. Since mechanism for the exchanges was established in 2000, there has been fruitful bilateral cooperation in education, culture, health services, sports, tourism, media, film, and the communication between the young people of the two countries. For example, China and Russia have successfully held several big themed events, such as the "National Year," "Language Year" and "Tourism Year," which have had a positive social impact. From 2014-2015, the "China-Russia Youth Friendly Exchange Year" will be held in both countries.

China and Russia are countries with profound cultural heritages, and both have made a great contribution to global civilization. Bilateral cultural exchanges have influenced generations of people. Russian literature and music have left a deep impression on my generation. The cultures of China and Russia have seen new development in the process of modernization. We should communicate more and learn from each other. The younger generation, in particular, should get to know each other and build strong ties of friendship in order to lay a solid foundation for the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership.

The legislative authorities of the two countries have unique advantages in pushing forward people-to-people exchanges. At the seventh meeting of the cooperation committee between the NPC and the Russian Federation Council, the two countries will hold a dialogue on people-to-people exchanges and exchange views on an agreement for cooperation in this field.

The Chinese dream propounded by Chinese leaders has aroused interest globally. Western media have their own interpretation of the concept. How can we clearly explain the Chinese dream to Africans (foreigners) and help them realize the opportunities this dream can bring them?

The Chinese dream visually depicts the great revival of the Chinese nation and reflects the ideals and pursuance of the Chinese people of several generations. In addition, we have never been so close to the ideal like we are today. As President Xi and other new state leaders have said, realizing the dream means people have better education, greater job security, a more decent income, better social security, improved medical and health services, more comfortable living conditions and a more beautiful environment. China has a solid basis and policy support to put forward this dream and to help the Chinese people pursue their own dreams.

The 18th National Party Congress put forward the goals of doubling China's 2010 GDP and per-capita income for both urban and rural residents by 2020 and turning China into a modern socialist country that is prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced and harmonious by 2049. These are the two key historical junctures in realizing the Chinese dream. A developing power with a population of 1.35 billion, China has made great efforts to achieve this grand goal and will continue to do so. This is not an easy task. It is the greatest mission of the Chinese nation.

First, to realize the Chinese dream, we need a peaceful and stable international environment. China itself should also make efforts in this regard. Thus, the Chinese dream will be a positive energy in maintaining peace and stability. China will continue to develop itself in a peaceful manner, adhere to its diplomatic policy of independence and peace and follow the principle of not seeking hegemony or power politics. In this regard, we should maintain national consensus.

Second, the realization of the Chinese dream means sustainable development of China itself. After a country with a population 1.3 billion enters a higher level of development, it will surely contribute to the economic development in its neighboring countries, and the world, and bring more global opportunities. China will position itself globally in various layers, including resources, markets and even capital and talent personnel. Thus, it also needs to launch more mutually beneficial cooperation with other countries.

Third, the Chinese dream is the same as the dreams of people in other developing countries and they supplement each other. In the process of realizing its dream, China is also able to share its development experience and opportunities with other countries. At the same time, we also need to foster our consciousness and capacity of supplying international public goods.

On this trip, Chairman Zhang will exchange views on these issues with leaders of the four countries, introduce the Chinese dream and China's development plans and learn about their opinions to enhance political mutual trust and promote friendly cooperation.