Xi urges deeper China–Russia ties amid global uncertainty

Chinese President Xi Jinping said China and Russia must deepen trust and expand cooperation, reaffirming Beijing’s close ties with Moscow during talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Beijing.

Meeting at the Great Hall of the People, Xi said the “stability” and “certainty” of China-Russia relations were increasingly valuable amid global uncertainty, according to state news agency Xinhua.

He asked Lavrov to convey his “sincere regards” to Vladimir Putin, signalling continued political alignment between the two countries.

Strategic alignment

Xi said Beijing and Moscow should “trust and support each other” and strengthen strategic coordination to defend their shared interests.

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“In the face of a once-in-a-century change, China and Russia must, through closer and more robust strategic cooperation, resolutely defend the legitimate interests of both countries,” he said.

He also called for both countries to uphold the unity of the so-called Global South and demonstrate responsibility as major powers and permanent members of the UN Security Council.

Balancing global ties

The meeting comes as China expands diplomatic engagement with a range of countries, including Western nations, even as it reinforces ties with Russia.

Leaders from Spain, Britain and Canada have visited Beijing this year in efforts to strengthen relations, while Vietnam’s top leader, Tô Lâm, also met Xi on Wednesday to deepen bilateral cooperation.

Analysts say Beijing is seeking to balance its strategic partnership with Moscow while maintaining economic and political ties with other global players.

Xi and Putin are expected to hold a summit later this year to reaffirm their partnership, with both sides marking key anniversaries in bilateral relations, including the 2001 Sino-Russian Treaty of Friendship.

China has in recent years promoted the idea of a “multipolar world”, positioning itself and its partners as an alternative to what it describes as U.S. dominance in global affairs.

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News Politics Russia Vladimir Putin Moscow Sergei Lavrov China Xi Jinping Strategic alliance