Putin says Russia-China ties are stabilizing global relations

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit China for the second time in less than a year, ahead of talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The two-day visit begins on Tuesday.

Putin stated that Moscow and Beijing’s relationship is a “stabilising” force on the world stage, as he prepares to meet with Xi. He emphasized that both countries aim to work together for “peace and universal prosperity,” while coordinating efforts to defend international law and the principles of the UN Charter.

The Russian president also highlighted the importance of cooperation between Moscow and Beijing within various multilateral platforms, including the UN, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, BRICS, and others. He noted that Russia and China support each other on fundamental matters such as the protection of sovereignty and national unity.

Putin’s visit to China comes ahead of a summit with Xi, which is scheduled for Wednesday. The meeting marks the second face-to-face encounter between the leaders in less than a year. The visit also coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation between Russia and China.

Experts note that Putin’s visit demonstrates his country’s ability to maintain high-level political access and economic partnerships despite Western pressure. For China, the relationship with Russia is seen as a reliable pillar of its strategic environment. The visit highlights Beijing’s foreign policy agency and its ability to shape its own diplomatic approach.

Trade between Russia and China has increased significantly in recent years, with two-way trade reaching $245 billion in 2024. The countries have strengthened their economic cooperation, with Russia relying on oil, gas, and coal exports to China, while China supplies Russia with manufactured goods.

Source: Al Jazeera