Xi Jinping is heading to Russia on the first stop of his maiden overseas tour as president of China, BBC News reported.

Xi is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, with the two likely to discuss energy and investment deals.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Xi said the two countries were "most important strategic partners" who spoke a "common language".

He will also visit Tanzania, South Africa and the Republic of Congo on his tour, which continues until 30 March. In South Africa, he will attend the fifth Brics summit from 26-27 March. Brics stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - five key emerging economies.

The choice of Moscow as Xi's first destination is seen as symbolic, and a move from China to counter the US pivot to Asia. Russia is one of the world's biggest energy producers, and China is the world's top energy consumer. Bilateral trade is booming, reaching a record $88bn (£58bn) last year.

Beijing and Moscow have held similar positions over a number of thorny diplomatic issues, from Iran to Syria to North Korea, and some analysts suggest the bond is likely to strengthen.