Russian leader Vladimir Putin stated that relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping are now at an unprecedented level during their meeting in Beijing on the eve of a significant military parade.
Putin referred to Xi as a cherished friend, while Chinese media described their relationship as exemplary. The meeting also focused on Russia's plan to increase gas shipments to China, alongside a new program for visa-free travel for Russian citizens which will be piloted for a year.
At the same time, Xi is preparing to host North Korea's Kim Jong Un, signaling a display of unity among nations associated with aggressive stances in international relations, particularly regarding the Ukraine war.
This week’s military parade, marking 80 years since Japan's surrender in World War Two, will showcase China's military capabilities.
During the discussions held at the Great Hall of the People, Putin refrained from explicitly mentioning the Ukraine conflict, opting instead to highlight the strategic nature of the partnership with China.
Xi echoed Putin’s sentiments, noting that Chinese-Russian relations have endured through international fluctuations and expressing a willingness to collaborate on creating a more equitable global governance system.
As the two leaders reaffirmed their ties, they outlined a shared vision for a new international order amid the backdrop of the ongoing geopolitical tensions, underscoring their mutual reliance and the strategic depth of their partnership.
Meanwhile, both nations find themselves at a crossroads where cooperation is essential for economic revitalization, particularly given the impact of Western sanctions due to the Ukraine war. The anticipated volume of gas supplies by Russia to China is expected to reach 106 billion cubic meters, marking a significant development for both economies.
As Xi welcomes Putin, he emphasizes China's role as a reliable trading partner, especially as Western economies adjust to shifting policies under leadership changes.
While the West reacts to Russia's actions with sanctions, China attempts to navigate this landscape carefully, maintaining its support for Russia while positioning itself as a leader on the global stage.
Kim Jong Un's attendance at the coming celebrations marks a historic moment, being the first visit of a North Korean leader to a Chinese military parade in over six decades.
