'The contract in current market parameters is absolutely unprecedented', Putin told investors at the annual Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum.

Foreign Minister says there is ‘enormous potential’ for eastern Russia as Moscow forges closer diplomatic bond with Beijing.

Exports overseas increase to highest levels in seven years but Russia still slips behind rivals as Asia turns to other countries for wood.

Plans to remove barbed wire from migration route would allow safe passage and help boost numbers of tigers and leopards.

After months of speculation, parliament and President rubber-stamp deal that will see gas sent to China.

Pipeline will go through pristine Altai Mountains in supply route seen as economically vital by Kremlin.

Agreement means Power of Siberia pipe could be delayed, it is claimed.

Special train - the Eurasian Star - will reopen exotic and historic trail linking China, Mogolia and Russia.