MOSCOW -- An overwhelming majority of Russians see China in a positive light, recent survey data shows, bucking global sentiment as Beijing faces criticism over its geopolitical assertiveness, human rights record and handling of COVID-19.
Seventy-four percent of Russians surveyed by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs and the Moscow-based Levada Center said they view China favorably. Likewise, 40% named China as their country's closest friend -- the top percentage across all nations.
