Xi Jinping and Putin Strengthen China-Russia Relations

During a two-day state visit to Beijing, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping hailed a "new stage" in China-Russia relations. They agreed to extend the China-Russia friendship treaty and pledged to work together to balance the global order.

The two leaders held talks, attended cultural events, and signed several cooperation agreements, launching the China-Russia Year of Education. Xi emphasized the importance of political trust and deepening cooperation in trade, energy, science, technology, and cultural exchanges.

Putin described the bilateral relationship as reaching an unprecedented level, built on strong trust and a long-term partnership. China remains Russia's largest trade partner, with bilateral trade surpassing $200 billion for the third consecutive year.

Both leaders called for reforms in international governance to ensure fairness and equity and pledged to strengthen coordination within the UN, BRICS, APEC, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to promote a multipolar world order. Xi also called for an immediate end to hostilities in the Gulf region to reduce disruptions in global energy supply.