Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a video call, praising their bilateral relationship as a crucial factor in establishing stability on the global stage amid volatile world conditions.
The discussion took place just before the fourth anniversary of Russia's military operation in Ukraine, which began in February 2022. A Kremlin aide said the conversation lasted about 1 hour and 25 minutes and was conducted in a friendly and trusting atmosphere.
China and Russia have increasingly presented a united front in confronting Western countries. Their ties have grown closer since Russia launched its attack on Ukraine and faced heavy economic sanctions from the United States and its allies.
Moscow has turned more to China for trade and economic support to sustain itself amid sanction pressures, while China has never condemned Russia's war or called for troop withdrawals from Ukraine, leading many of Ukraine’s allies to believe Beijing provides indirect support to Moscow.
Chinese state media CCTV reported that President Xi Jinping told Putin, "Since the beginning of this year, the international situation has become increasingly turbulent." Xi said both sides should ensure China–Russia relations develop steadily on the right path through deeper strategic coordination and take a proactive role as global powers.
Meanwhile, President Putin, referring to Xi Jinping as a dear friend, similarly said that the foreign policy alliance between Moscow and Beijing remains a key factor in maintaining global stability.
Putin stated that the comprehensive strategic partnership and cooperation between Russia and China serve as a model for international relations, although neither side disclosed detailed specifics of their strategic cooperation.
The Kremlin revealed that the two leaders exchanged views on the United States, with almost complete agreement, and also discussed tensions in Iran and strategic security matters after a key nuclear deal between Russia and the U.S. neared expiration.
Putin also assured Xi Jinping that Russia would act responsibly once the agreement concluded.
During the conversation, Xi Jinping reiterated China’s commitment to an international system centered on the United Nations (UN), where China holds a permanent seat on the Security Council with veto power.
This stance comes amid concerns following U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to establish a Peace Committee, which has been viewed as an attempt to diminish the UN's global role.
The discussion with Putin occurred just hours before Chinese media reported that Xi Jinping had a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, though details were not disclosed.
In recent months, China has intensified its diplomatic ties with various world leaders to build alliances amid perceptions of unpredictable U.S. policies. Leaders from France, Canada, Finland, and traditional ally Uruguay have all visited Beijing consecutively.
. Source:channelnewsasia
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