New envoy to Russia to boost nations' unity

Former vice-foreign minister, regional expert will help foster peace, stability

Beijing's new ambassador to Moscow, Zhang Hanhui, has assumed his office, reinforcing efforts of the two global powers to beef up their role in navigating hot spot issues and championing stability, analysts said.

The new role for Zhang, a veteran diplomat, former vice-foreign minister and expert on Russia and Central Asia, also shows the priority China places on robust coordination with its neighbor as well as its commitment to policy continuity, they said.