Xi Pledges Deeper Russia Ties as China Shifts Coal Imports

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed commitment to elevate China-Russia relations "to a new height" during a video call with Russian President Vladimir Putin following Trump's inauguration, the Kremlin reported on January 21.

Xi emphasized China's readiness to stand with Russia "facing external uncertainties," highlighting growing bilateral trade.

Putin noted trade has increased by 7% to over $220 billion, with China being Russia's primary trading partner and energy customer.

China is the largest consumer of Russian energy resources. We hold the first place in terms of oil exports to China. Five years ago, together with you, we launched the Power of Siberia gas pipeline, and today Russia has taken the first place in natural gas supplies to China, Putin said.

Meanwhile, The Moscow Times reports China is reducing Russian coal imports despite growing domestic demand, favoring Australian and Mongolian suppliers.

Russian coal exports to China dropped nearly 7%, while Mongolia and Australia saw increases of 18% and 60%, respectively, in 2024 compared to 2022.