Russian President Vladimir Putin praised his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping as “unprecedented” during their recent meeting in Beijing. This meeting occurred just before a significant military parade, showcasing the deepening ties between the two nations.
Putin referred to Xi as a “dear friend,” while Chinese state media described their relations as exemplary. Russia plans to increase gas supplies to China, and in return, Beijing will offer visa-free travel to Russian citizens for one year.
Xi is also set to welcome North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, signaling solidarity among nations opposing Western influence, particularly in the context of the Ukraine war. On Wednesday, Xi will host China’s largest military parade, commemorating the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II.
In May, Xi visited Moscow to participate in Russia’s celebrations marking the defeat of the Nazis. Both Russia and North Korea rely heavily on China to support their economies, and these meetings allow Xi to demonstrate his growing power and influence.
Strategic Discussions and Global Governance
During discussions at the Great Hall of the People, Putin did not mention the Ukraine war directly. Instead, he emphasized the strategic nature of Russia-China relations. “Our close communication reflects the unprecedented level of our partnership,” Putin stated, reinforcing their commitment to collaboration.
Xi echoed this sentiment, asserting that “China-Russia relations have withstood the test of international changes.” He expressed China’s willingness to work with Russia to promote a more equitable global governance system.
These meetings come at a crucial time for both leaders. Xi aims to position China as a stable trading partner amid global economic uncertainties, particularly as U.S. tariffs disrupt international trade. Meanwhile, Russia seeks to replace lost revenue from Western sanctions through increased gas exports to China.
Russian news agencies reported that pipeline gas supplies to China could reach 106 billion cubic meters once all projects are operational. This volume remains significantly lower than what Russia previously exported to the European Union.
Starting September 15, China will implement a year-long trial of visa-free travel for Russian passport holders, further strengthening bilateral ties.
Criticism of Western Policies
At the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, both leaders criticized Western governments. Putin defended Russia’s actions in Ukraine, blaming the West for the conflict. Xi urged SCO members to oppose “Cold War thinking” and confrontational behavior.
Kim Jong Un’s attendance at the military parade marks a historic moment, as it is his first multilateral international meeting. This event also marks the first time in decades that a North Korean leader will participate in a Chinese military parade.
Most Western leaders are expected to boycott the parade due to their opposition to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. However, Beijing has not condemned Putin’s actions and has faced accusations from the U.S. and allies of supporting Russia’s war efforts, which it denies.
