Putin sees no change to Russia's China policy

SYDNEY, Sep 8 (Reuters) Russian President Vladimir Putin said today there will be no change in Russian policy towards China after he steps down.

In opening remarks to a meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao, Putin praised the state of relations, which both countries describe as a strategic partnership.

''You and I have achieved the highest level of Russian-Chinese relations. I have no doubt that Russia's policy as far as China is concerned will not be changed,'' Putin said.

Russia will hold presidential elections in March next year.

Putin is ineligible for re-election after serving two terms.

Russia and China staged their biggest joint military exercises last month, although there is some caution overhanging the leaders' bonhomie, with Moscow wanting to supply energy to China's booming economy and sell it weapons, but remaining wary of Beijing's growing economic and military might.

REUTERS SW HT1242