Putin and Xi Strengthen Moscow-Beijing Ties Amid Victory Anniversary

Against the backdrop of the 80th anniversary of the Victory, the countries agreed on new projects and “equality,” reports Orda.kz.

On May 8, the Kremlin hosted Russian-Chinese high-level talks: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese Chair Xi Jinping discussed and signed intergovernmental agreements. The occasion for the Chinese leader's visit was the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. 

Ten years ago, Xi was the primary foreign guest of the Victory Parade.

I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to communicate with you personally and am grateful that you have come to Moscow again for such an important date for us,
Putin said, opening the meeting. 

In turn, Xi called the Russian President a “dear friend” and emphasized:

The leaders first held negotiations in a narrow format, then in an expanded format with the participation of government members and businessmen. They discussed global security issues, reforming the world architecture, energy, investment, and trade.

They signed an updated agreement on mutual protection of investments.

Specific initiatives include launching the Far Eastern gas route in 2027, increasing mutual trade turnover ($244.9 billion in 2024), and developing transport infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects.

The “Far Eastern gas route” refers to the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline project.

We are not working against anyone, but for the benefit of our peoples. Our cooperation is based on equality, trust and respect for sovereignty,
 Putin said.

The Chinese side highlighted the two countries' role in countering “unilateral dictates and attempts to rewrite the results of World War II.”

China and Russia should jointly uphold the principles of justice, maintain the stability of the world order, and strengthen inclusive globalization,
 Xi Jinping said.

At the end of the official part of the meeting, the leaders held an informal tea party, during which, as the Kremlin notes, they discussed the most sensitive issues, including those related to international security.

Chinese state media highlighted the visit as a demonstration of the renewed vitality in China-Russia relations, presenting a new model of major-country relations characterized by mutual respect, equality, and strategic cooperation.

Original Author: Ruslan Loginov