Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian leader Vladimir Putin celebrated their strong alliance and expanding energy trade during their meeting in Beijing on Wednesday, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent visit to China. The two leaders presided over the signing of over 40 cooperation agreements covering trade, technology, and media exchanges. Emphasizing their deepening economic relationship, especially in the energy sector, they reaffirmed their alignment on global affairs.
Xi described the current state of bilateral relations as the strongest in history, highlighting the signing of an extension to a friendship treaty initially established in 2001. Putin underscored the pivotal role of energy cooperation in driving economic collaboration between Russia and China. He noted Russia’s continued reliability as an energy supplier amidst the Middle East crisis, while China maintains responsible consumption practices.
Xi advocated for a peaceful resolution to conflicts in the Middle East to safeguard energy supply stability and global trade order. He criticized unilateralism and hegemonism, indirectly referencing certain global actions without explicitly naming the U.S. Both leaders expressed concerns over the U.S.’s missile defense plans and urged for responsible actions in nuclear treaty agreements.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, China emerged as Russia’s primary trading partner. Despite facing economic sanctions from the U.S. and Europe, China has maintained neutrality in the Ukraine conflict while bolstering economic ties with Russia. The demand for Russian oil and gas supplies from China is expected to rise amid the Iran conflict.
Putin highlighted the importance of China-Russia cooperation in foreign policy as a stabilizing force on the global stage. While discussions on the Power of Siberia 2 natural gas pipeline did not yield visible progress, both leaders emphasized the significance of their strategic partnership. Putin extended an invitation to Xi to visit Russia in 2027, further solidifying their close relationship.
The meeting between Xi and Putin showcased the strong bond between the two nations, with Xi referring to Putin as his “best and most intimate friend.” The history of China-Russia relations, from alliance to split and eventual reconciliation post-Soviet era, underscores the evolution of their partnership into a mutually beneficial and strategic alliance.