Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing for a two-day state visit aimed at deepening Russia’s strategic partnership with China. Amid Western pressure and growing trade ties, Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to discuss enhancing their comprehensive partnership.
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing on Thursday, 16 May 2024, for a two-day state visit aimed at deepening Russia’s strategic partnership with China. This marks Putin’s second visit to China in less than a year and his first foreign trip since beginning his new term as president.
During his visit, Putin is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss ways to enhance their “no limits” partnership, a term coined during a previous meeting shortly before the onset of the Ukraine war in February 2022. The leaders are set to address issues related to trade, energy, industry, and high technology.
The visit comes amid mounting pressure from Western nations, led by the United States, on China to curtail its support for Russia, which has been under extensive sanctions due to its actions in Ukraine. Last year, bilateral trade between China and Russia reached a record $240 billion, with China becoming a pivotal supplier of machinery, electronics, and other high-tech components for Russia.
Putin’s visit aligns with a ceremonial event celebrating 75 years since the Soviet Union recognized the People’s Republic of China. Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov mentioned that the informal talks would touch upon topics including Ukraine, Asia, energy, and trade.
Analysts suggest that Putin seeks to project strength by highlighting his alliance with the world’s second-largest economy, as both countries face increasing Western opposition.