Chinese state media have described the Russian Orthodox
Patriarch's visit to Beijing as "historic". They also have reported at great length the "frank and cordial" talks between the head of the Russian Church and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Although state atheism is still official in the People's Republic, the new Communist leader characterised as "important" the effort by the Patriarchate to improve relations between the two nations.
He also said that Kirill will be called to "play a greater role" in their development.