MOSCOW, December 14. /TASS/. The relationship between Russia and China is playing the role of a major guarantor of stability in the international arena, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at the combined Direct Line Q&A session and year-end press conference.

"As regards BRICS and our role (of Russia and China - TASS), this trend has been strengthening. Namely, relations between Russia and China are a major guarantor of global stability," the Russian leader maintained.

Putin highlighted bilateral cooperation in the military, economic and humanitarian spheres. "However, we don’t create any blocs and our friendship is not aimed against third countries as it seeks our own benefit; it’s not directed against anyone," the Russian president assured reporters.