Province's trade ties with Russia forging ahead

Heilongjiang province reported 64.7 percent annual growth in its trade with Russia last year, according to the provincial Commerce Department. Its trade with Russia reached 122 billion yuan ($17.32 billion), ranking first among provincial-level regions in the country.

Investment in 16 overseas economic and trade cooperation zones with Russia reached $3 billion and attracted 147 enterprises, with Chinese companies paying $250 million in tax.

The province shares a 2,981-kilometer border with Russia and is now taking full advantage of the Belt and Road Initiative and its unique geographical position to boost its business, economic and cultural ties with Russia.