Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to China marks a pivotal moment in the deepening relationship between two global powers. This trip, which took place on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and China, underscores the evolving strategic partnership between these nations.
Putin’s choice of China for his first foreign visit after commencing a new presidential term signals the significance Moscow places on Beijing. During his stay from May 16 to 17, Putin engaged in extensive talks and sealed key agreements that promised to bolster economic ties and enhance cooperation against shared global challenges. The itinerary included stops in Beijing and Harbin, where he met with Chinese leaders to discuss mutual interests and future collaborations. This visit is emblematic of a shifting geopolitical landscape, where Russia and China are drawing closer amidst a backdrop of global uncertainties. As the world watches, this reinforced alliance could have far-reaching implications, from economic exchanges to coordinated geopolitical strategies. Putin’s visit not only celebrates a historic milestone but also sets the stage for a robust future partnership.
The meeting between Russian President Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing stands out as a significant moment. The extensive and substantive negotiations covered an impressive array of topics, emphasizing the development of bilateral relations and addressing critical global issues. During an informal yet pivotal meeting, the two leaders tackled important issues head-on, including the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
Xi succinctly shared insights from his recent European tour and outlined China’s initiatives for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. The personal rapport between Putin and Xi plays an undeniable role in the burgeoning relations between their countries. Their mutual regard is evident in their repeated references to each other as “dear friends.” Their private conversations, joint walks, and tea ceremonies, which often extend for hours, highlight the unique blend of personal and professional camaraderie that underpins their interactions.
With around 40 meetings over the years, the depth of their relationship is clear. In a world increasingly defined by shifting alliances, the bond between Putin and Xi, forged through countless hours of dialogue and shared moments, is a testament to the enduring power of personal diplomacy in shaping the course of international affairs.
During his talks with President Putin, President Xi highlighted the bedrock principles guiding China-Russia relations. Xi articulated five core tenets that define this partnership. First, mutual respect is paramount, with each nation supporting the other’s core interests. This principle ensures a foundation of trust and loyalty. Second, win-win cooperation drives the relationship, fostering a paradigm where mutual benefits are paramount. This collaborative spirit aims to enhance economic and strategic ties. Third, the commitment to lasting friendship perpetuates the Sino-Russian bond, emphasizing a historical camaraderie that both nations cherish and aim to preserve. Fourth, strategic coordination underpins their global stance, guiding efforts to steer international governance toward shared goals. Lastly, fairness and justice form the core purpose of their relations, with a dedicated focus on the political settlement of global conflicts. This principle underscores their joint commitment to international stability and peace.
These “five principles” not only model an exemplary relationship between neighboring powers but also chart a course for continued success in China-Russia relations, navigating the complexities of a multipolar world with a unified vision.
Both nations champion multilateralism and stand firmly against hegemony and unilateralism in international organizations such as the United Nations and the G20. Their efforts are geared towards democratizing and multipolarizing the global order, while staunchly upholding international fairness and justice. Nonetheless, Putin’s 2024 visit to China not only reaffirms the close ties between the two nations but also marks the beginning of a further deepening of their strategic partnership, aimed at promoting global peace and prosperity.
Presidents Putin and Xi signed a comprehensive joint statement aimed at deepening their partnership and strategic interaction. This document outlined future development paths for bilateral relations and underscores the pivotal role of Russia and China in shaping a fair and democratic world order. The leaders also witnessed the signing of over ten key cooperation documents, underscoring their commitment to robust economic and strategic collaboration.
Putin’s presence at the eighth China-Russia Expo in Harbin highlighted the economic dimensions of this partnership, infusing new energy into bilateral trade and cooperation. Under the strategic guidance of both presidents, China and Russia have steadily developed their relations on principles of non-alignment, non-confrontation, and non-targeting of any third party. This approach exemplifies peaceful coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation between major powers. The deepening ties between China and Russia not only serve the fundamental interests of their peoples but also contribute significantly to regional and global peace, stability, and prosperity.
Under the strategic direction of their respective leaders, the China-Russia bilateral trade volume reached an unprecedented $240.1 billion in 2023, surpassing their $200 billion target ahead of schedule and continuing to grow rapidly in 2024. In 2023, Russia set a record in oil and gas exports to China, supplying 107 million tons of oil— a 24 percent increase from the previous year, according to China’s General Administration of Customs. The export of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to China also saw a nearly 25 percent rise. These figures underscore the strengthening economic ties between the two nations, particularly in the energy sector.
During his state visit to China, President Vladimir Putin announced plans for the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, a major project poised to further deepen energy cooperation. This pipeline will transport Russian gas to China through Mongolia, providing up to 50 billion cubic meters of gas annually. Such initiatives highlight the strategic importance both countries place on their energy partnership, cementing a relationship that significantly impacts the global energy market and geopolitical landscape.
Both leaders also delved into pressing international issues, including the conflict in Ukraine and the stance of the USA. In their joint statement, they urged the U.S. to halt military-biological activities that jeopardize the security of other nations. Both countries voiced their opposition to the formation of exclusive blocs and military alliances in the Asia-Pacific region targeting any third party.
Beyond economics, the collaboration between Russia and China extends into cultural domains. On May 16, Presidents Putin and Xi inaugurated the China-Russia Years of Culture at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. They also explored sports cooperation, coordination within international organizations such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the maintenance of international stability through the United Nations.
The close partnership between Russia and China is increasingly seen as a pillar of global stability. This year, Russia takes on the rotating presidency of BRICS, while China will soon assume the rotating presidency of the SCO. Together, they are committed to promoting regional stability and development, enhancing the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and the Eurasian Economic Union, and fostering cooperation among the SCO, BRICS, and countries of the Global South.
Both nations champion multilateralism and stand firmly against hegemony and unilateralism in international organizations such as the United Nations and the G20. Their efforts are geared towards democratizing and multipolarizing the global order, while staunchly upholding international fairness and justice. Nonetheless, Putin’s 2024 visit to China not only reaffirms the close ties between the two nations but also marks the beginning of a further deepening of their strategic partnership, aimed at promoting global peace and prosperity.
