The world-renowned Kirov Ballet presented the classic ballet Swan Lake in Beijing on the night of November 7, winning the applause of an enthusiastic audience that included Chinese President Jiang Zemin and Vice Premier Li Lanqing.

Prior to the performance, Jiang met with the director of the ballet company Makhar Vaziev and members of the troupe.

Jiang said the Chinese government and people highly emphasize cooperation with Russia in all fields, including in the arts, and added that cultural exchanges are helpful for increasing mutual understanding and friendship.

The Kirov Ballet is one of the world's top ballet companies.

Vice Premier Li Lanqing and other senior Chinese officials also attended this evening's performance.