Becoming a Russian Oligarch After Rebirth
Chapter 500: New Star in the Political Arena_1

Chapter 500: Chapter 500: New Star in the Political Arena_1

Wang Ye slept like a log, only waking up as the plane was about to land.

Feeling refreshed after washing his face in the restroom, he returned to his seat and saw that it was already past ten o’clock in the evening.

Of course, this was Russia time; with the time difference, it should be just past five in the afternoon in China.

The stewardess was already making an announcement about the landing.

Using the display screen on the wall as a reference, Wang Ye reset his watch to China time.

Soon afterward, the plane began to descend, and Wang could vaguely see a large group of buildings through the window.

However, it was not yet dark, and the lights had not yet come on, signifying they were in the capital!

Noticing Wang Ye looking out the window, Aleksey chuckled and asked, "Is this your first time in China?"

Wang Ye gave a noncommittal response, shaking his head and replying: "I visited a few times with my parents when I was a child."

"The last time I was here over a decade ago, it was relatively undeveloped compared to us. However, I hear that China has developed rapidly in recent years, especially its major cities, rivaling our Moscow and Petersburg. If I have time, I would like to explore and check out whether it’s as advanced as the news reports." Aleksey said with keen interest.

Wang Ye, on the other hand, smiled and said: "I’m more interested in Chinese cuisine. I hope to get the Chinese colleagues to take me to experience some authentic local delicacies."

Aleksey glanced out of the window and whispered: "China did not send fighter jets for escort..."

Wang Ye was puzzled, not understanding what Aleksey meant. Why would there be a need for fighter jet escort? They were already flying over the capital, and safety was hardly a concern.

Of course, Wang did not understand that Kasianov is equivalent to a head of government, the second in command in the hierarchy.

Only the Head of State at the Kremlin ranks higher, being the country’s number one figure!

When they visit other countries, particularly those with lesser strength and international influence than Russia, or those with friendly relations, they would receive a grand welcome.

This includes fighter jet escort, airport receptions, 21 (or 19) gun salutes, red carpet ceremonies, flower presentations and so on...

Now, Kasianov’s visit did not come with fighter jet escort from China...

......

While they were chatting, the plane shook slightly and a series of "thud-thud" sounds could be heard.

The plane had landed on the runway.

After the plane came to a standstill, several individuals from the executive cabin began to rise.

They all tidied up their clothes; there were no luggage or similar items, as these were carried by the accompanying personnel.

They were to walk on the red carpet, exchange pleasantries, and have photos taken with the Chinese welcoming delegation...

According to diplomatic reciprocity, since the Russian delegation was led by Kasianov, China had naturally sent President Zhu to welcome them!

As the plane came to a halt and the gangway was lowered, Wang Ye looked out of the window and noticed a large number of people already waiting on the apron below, including even a military band!

These people were obviously there to welcome them.

Kasianov rose to his feet and spoke in a loud voice, "Alright, let’s follow me down. Mind your manners!"

Their group would be the "protagonists" of the welcome ceremony, representing the image of Russia.

Undoubtedly, many media reporters were gathering below, and it was even possible that television stations were broadcasting live. In diplomacy, no mishap is too small; any mishap would be embarrassing.

However, there was no need worrying about this, since the folks from the executive cabin were all people with vast experience!

......

Upon opening the cabin door, Kasianov walked out first.

The ones behind him instinctively lined up, and did not hurry down.

They all had to wait until Kasianov had descended before they could do so, to highlight Kasianov’s rank!

Otherwise, it would be very chaotic if they all crowded on the gangway...

Wang Ye was at the rear of the line, originally Aleksey was to stand behind him, but Wang Ye pulled him in front.

Their ranks were the same, so it didn’t matter who stood where. Wang Ye was doing this out of respect for Aleksey’s seniority, as Aleksey was older and had more experience.

At the cabin exit, Wang Ye craned his neck to look down.

Kasianov had already descended the gangway and was shaking hands warmly with welcoming President Zhu.

The people in front started descending one by one, with Wang Ye following suit.

Their descent was faster, as they were not the "main characters", but simply the "supporting characters".

Still, as they descended, the reporters stationed below aimed their "big guns" at them and unleashed a round of "clicking" from their cameras!

The flashing of the cameras almost blinded Wang Ye...

When they got to Kasianov, they took turns shaking hands with President Zhu.

A smile could be seen on President Zhu’s usually stern face, after all, they were visitors from afar. It wouldn’t do to keep a stern face while welcoming the guests.

For the first few men, President Zhu merely shook their hands and uttered a brief welcome before letting go.

However, when it was Wang Ye’s turn, President Zhu was taken aback at the sight of him. While holding Wang Ye’s hand firmly after listening to Kasianov’s introduction of him as "Duma Member, Member of the Economic Committee, Director of the Yukos Group, President of the United Aviation Group," he exclaimed with excitement.

President Zhu looked at him strangely, shaking Wang Ye’s hand and smiling: "I too have heard about the political rising star lately from Russia. Seeing you today, I must say, you certainly live up to your reputation. Good day, Member Mikhail!"

He said this in Chinese.

Wang Ye responded naturally in Chinese too: "Polite words, I simply endeavor to do what I can for my country and my electorate. Good day, President Zhu, I’m honored to meet you."

Speaking of President Zhu, he is a figure who has garnered numerous complaints but also an equal number of supporters who view him as a model of the times!

Despite any criticism, President Zhu, even though he only served one term, has done many things capable of changing the course of the country’s development!

Before him and after him, different sectors of the country underwent drastic changes!

Of course, some changes were good and some were bad...

But generally speaking, the positive changes largely outweighed the negative ones.

......

President Zhu nodded with a smile and let go of Wang Ye’s hand.

Wang Ye walked to the back and faintly heard President Zhu whispering softly.

"His Mandarin is indeed fluent..."

As Kasianov and President Zhu stood at the front, Wang Ye and others at the back, a group of lively little girls carrying bouquets stepped forward, offering flowers to everyone.

Wang Ye bent down and accepted a bouquet from a little girl with a warm smile.

At this moment, the military band began to play.

Only, there was no gun salute performance, which made the reception seem a little lacking in atmosphere...