Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Moscow to hold summit talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Xi started his three-day state visit to Russia on Monday. This is his first visit since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in February last year. A summit meeting is scheduled to be held on Tuesday.

Ahead of his trip, Xi contributed an article to Russian media. He wrote China and Russia should "inject new impetus," focusing on the two countries' development and rejuvenation.

He expressed his intention to further promote bilateral economic cooperation and personnel exchanges. He also stressed that his country will play a constructive role for the peaceful settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

The Russian presidential office says the two leaders will have an informal dinner together with only their interpreters on Monday evening.

Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov noted that during the talks, the two leaders will discuss the most important and sensitive issues involving the two countries. He suggested that the two are likely to exchange candid opinions on issues, including the situation in Ukraine.

Observers say they seek to deepen their strategic partnership in a bid to keep the United States in check.