HARBIN, April 28 (Xinhua) -- Suspected remains of Soviet soldiers who died in China during World War II have been found in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, according to a Sino-Russia joint search team on Tuesday.

A preliminary survey for the joint search started on April 19 after a team of six from Russia arrived in Muleng City, Heilongjiang Province earlier this month.

The search area includes Huoshao Mountain and three adjacent villages.

The Soviet Union Red Army sent troops to northeast China on August 9, 1945, where they helped defeat the invading Japanese. A total of 413 Soviet soldiers died in the battle of Huoshao Mountain.

The suspected remains include several bone pieces, which still require further identification, said a Russian expert.

The preliminary survey is expected to be completed on Thursday, while a one-month search will start on May 10. A total of 17 people from Russia will join the efforts.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the allied victory in WWII. President Xi Jinping is scheduled to attend Moscow's commemoration of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany. China is also planning commemorative events, including a military parade, and will invite foreign leaders to China for the celebrations.