"As we say in the people..."

There was a story in the late eighties, during the talks China and the Soviet Union. The Soviet defense Minister is struggling to persuade its Chinese counterpart not to think more about the tragedy on the island Damansky. Communication, of course, done with the help of interpreters.

Well, as we say in the people: let bygones — and that the eyes out! said our Minister.

Translator from Russian to Chinese, without flinching and without changing the expression of detachment on her face, translated:

Mr. Minister with his own hands tear out the eyes of someone who has yet to ever mention the Sino-Soviet!

via www.anekdot.ru/id/812723/