(The opening ceremony Photo/Xinhua)

Dongfeng Motor, a Chinese state-owned automobile manufacturer, opened its first automobile dealership in Moscow this week, making it China’s first car dealer in Russia.

Dongfeng launched the new AX7 SUV at the opening ceremony and signed a strategic agreement with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC). Chinese Ambassador to Russia, Li Hui, said it shows off China’s R&D capability and productivity and will help Russians better understand the quality of “Made in China.”

Li Junzhi, general manager of Dongfeng, said Russia is a significant market for Dongfeng Motor’s expansion overseas. “The auto market in Russia will recover along with national economy as strong demand will be created by its 140-million strong population,” said Li.