Russian Defense Minister Arrives in China for Victory Day Events

Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu arrived in China on Tuesday to take part in events devoted to the 70th anniversary of the World War II ending, the Russian Defense Ministry said in statement.

MOSCOW, (Sputnik) — Shoygu is expected to meet with Chinese top military official Fan Changlong on Wednesday to discuss the issues of the bilateral military cooperation.

"On September 3, Defense Minister and the Russian delegation will observe the Beijing parade, dedicated to the 70th anniversary of the victory in the war against Japanese militarism and German fascism," the ministry said on its Facebook page.

Over 12,000 servicemen from 17 countries, some 500 units of military equipment and 200 planes are expected to take part in the military parade on Thursday. The Chinese authorities said that over 80 percent of equipment would be shown for the first time.

Russia will be represented by members of the 154th Preobrazhensky Independent Commandant's Regiment that will end the parade’s foot section.

Last week, Chinese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Zhang Ming said representatives of 49 countries confirmed their participation in the celebrations, including the leaders and heads of governments of 30 countries, as well as senior officials from 19 countries.