Chinese President Xi Jinping received a warm welcome from Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on Thursday, marking the beginning of a significant four-day state visit. This meeting comes as Russia continues its extensive military operations in Ukraine, now entering its fourth year.
Strengthening Historical Ties
During their discussions, Putin highlighted the deep-rooted strategic partnership between Russia and China, attributing their cooperation to the “combat brotherhood” established during World War II. He remarked,
“We are developing our ties for the benefit of the peoples of both countries, and not against anyone. Our relationship is based on equality, mutual benefit and is not driven by short-term considerations.”
Putin further emphasized the commitment to fostering good neighborly relations and expanding collaboration, underscoring that this choice stems from a foundation of strategic interaction.
Focus on Cooperation and Global Dynamics
Though the Soviet Union and China were significant allies against Axis forces during the war, their direct military collaboration was limited. Xi’s arrival in Moscow on Wednesday is timed with the upcoming Victory Day parade, where he is set to be honored as Russia’s “main guest.”
In addition to commemorating their historical bond, the two leaders are anticipated to engage in discussions surrounding trade relations, specifically regarding Russia’s oil and gas exports to China. This dialogue is anticipated to cover their cooperation within BRICS—an alliance of emerging economies—as confirmed by Putin’s foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov.
The rapport between Putin and Xi has strengthened significantly, with over 40 meetings held between them, particularly as tensions rise with Western nations. China has provided consistent diplomatic support to Russia, particularly since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in early 2022, condemning Western sanctions in the process. Additionally, Beijing has become a crucial supplier of machinery and electronics, compensating for the high-tech shortages created by these sanctions, while also being a significant market for Russian energy resources.
In a reciprocal gesture, Russia has expressed unwavering support for China concerning Taiwan, which Beijing regards as a part of its territory. Recently, concerns arose after two Chinese nationals fighting with Russian forces were captured in eastern Ukraine, sparking speculation about China’s potential military involvement in the ongoing conflict.
The timing of this bilateral meeting is particularly poignant, occurring shortly after messages exchanged between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa with Xi, celebrating 50 years of EU-China relations. Both sides expressed a desire to enhance their partnership and demonstrated a mutual commitment to addressing global challenges collaboratively.
This cooperative outlook starkly contrasts with the complexities of 2023, when von der Leyen criticized China’s aggressive stance and unfair economic practices, as well as its close ties with Moscow. However, with former US President Donald Trump’s return to power and the implementation of global tariffs, the EU finds itself re-evaluating its diplomatic relationships.