Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited China and met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. This meeting took place following their declaration of a “no limits” partnership just before the Russian invasion of Ukraine. During his visit, Xi Jinping made a statement indicating that they are driving significant changes together, which was widely broadcast.
China has shown unwavering support for Russia, with bilateral trade between the two countries reaching a record high of $240.1 billion, largely due to China’s purchase of Russian fossil fuels and the sale of essential products and commodities to Russia. Putin was accompanied by key officials during his visit, including Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.
In response to the Ukraine crisis, China released a 12-point peace proposal, and Putin expressed openness to dialogue on the matter. The visit was said to involve discussions on various issues related to the Russia-China partnership, as well as international and regional matters of concern.
Xi Jinping has been a strong supporter of Putin since the establishment of their partnership, suggesting that their alignment is likely to continue. However, the outcomes of Putin’s visit remain unclear. Did the leaders engage in meaningful negotiations on Ukraine, or was the focus primarily on showcasing their bilateral friendship? How will their trade relationship evolve following this visit? These are questions that remain unanswered.
Overall, the meeting between Putin and Xi Jinping highlights the ongoing collaboration between Russia and China and raises important considerations regarding their stance on international affairs. As the two countries navigate various challenges and opportunities, their partnership will undoubtedly continue to shape global dynamics in the years to come.