Xi hails successful opening of World Cup

President Xi Jinping held a phone conversation on Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, in which he congratulated him on the opening of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Xi said Russia's careful preparations would ensure that the international sports event is a full success.

During the conversation, the two leaders recalled their meetings during Putin's state visit to China and his attendance at the 18th Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Qingdao last week. They agreed to continue to maintain frequent communications.