Gold, silver prices slightly drop on Monday

International futures prices of gold and silver dropped slightly on Monday.

As of the close of trading, the gold futures for June delivery on the New York Mercantile Exchange dropped 0.09 percent to settle at 4,558 U.S. dollars per ounce.

The silver futures for July delivery closed at 77.444 U.S. dollars per ounce, down 0.13 percent.

Moscow residents highlighted bilateral trade flow and people-to-people exchanges while sharing their views on the cooperation achievements between China and Russia, ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to China.

Putin will pay a state visit to China from May 19 to 20.

In interviews with China Global Television Network (CGTN), Moscow residents praised China's long history, rich culture, modern development and its friendly people.

"China is magnificent and one of the world's oldest civilizations. I really love traveling there. For example, Shanghai is a historic city, and China is a country with a great history and good people. They've done a great job with their policies and have shown other countries how to develop their economies," said Konstantin, a dancer.

"Actually, I've been to China, to Guangzhou. I really liked it there — the laws, the whole country itself, the prices," said Khushalay Islam Ayobovich, a construction worker.

"China is a wealthy country with a rich culture and advanced technologies, so to speak. It is developing very rapidly in terms of energy, industry and education. I believe it is a very good partner for Russia overall," said Dalak Abdulmalik Salamanovich, a student.

Another student, Evelina, also expressed a favorable view.

"(I have) a good impression (of China) — beautiful culture, mentality and pleasant, friendly people," said Evelina.

On bilateral cooperation, Salamanovich pointed to the growing presence of Chinese products in Russia.

"At the very least, even right now, we can see that there are many Chinese cars in Russia, such as Haval, Omoda and Geely. There have also been many breakthroughs in tourism. We see many Chinese tourists in Russia, and many Russian tourists in China as well," he said.

Ayobovich emphasized the mutual benefits of cooperation.

"I think cooperating and being friends with China would be very good for both Russians and Chinese people. Prices, trade — all of that is beneficial. I've been there myself, so I know what good products they have. You can build trade and create a successful business there. I think our Commander-in-Chief, Vladimir Putin, is trying to make things good for Russians, and that's why cooperation will continue at the highest level, in my opinion," the construction worker said.

Knowledge sharing between the two countries is also an important consideration for residents.

"A lot of technologies are actually coming from China. This includes construction and waste processing. China shares its knowledge with us. Of course, we export many resources there, such as gas and oil," said Konstantin.