Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday emphasized the consistent growth of economic collaboration between Russia and China during a video conference with Chinese President Xi Jinping, characterizing their alliance as both strategic and mutually advantageous.
Strategic Energy and Technology Cooperation
According to reports from the Associated Press, Putin identified energy sector cooperation as a fundamental pillar of bilateral relations, describing it as "truly strategic." He noted that both nations are actively collaborating on the peaceful application of nuclear energy and advancing high-technology initiatives, including projects in industrial manufacturing and space exploration.
In comments aired on Russian state television, Putin reaffirmed Moscow's steadfast support for joint endeavors to safeguard the sovereignty and security of both countries. "I would like to once again assure you of firm support for our shared efforts to ensure the sovereignty and security of our countries, our socio-economic welfare and the right to choose our own development path," he stated, as per AP.
Xi Calls for Deeper Strategic Collaboration
Xi, in opening remarks translated by Russian media, indicated that the two leaders would deliberate on a new "grandiose plan for the development of bilateral ties" and exchange perspectives on significant strategic matters. He urged China and Russia to seize what he termed a "historic opportunity" to further intensify their strategic cooperation, AP reported.
Putin also expressed appreciation for China's decision to permit visa-free entry for Russian citizens and underscored cooperation in energy, nuclear power, space, and high-tech industries. Referencing the traditional Chinese calendar, he observed that the day marked the commencement of spring and remarked that "any season is springtime in Russia-China relations."
Stabilizing Factor in Global Turbulence
Putin portrayed Russia-China ties as a "stabilising" element during a period of global instability, lauding the "exemplary" nature of the partnership. He highlighted robust trade connections, noting that Russia has redirected exports toward Asia following extensive Western sanctions imposed over its 2022 offensive in Ukraine.
While China has refrained from condemning Russia's actions in Ukraine or demanding troop withdrawal, many of Ukraine's allies perceive Beijing as providing support to Moscow. Despite this, Putin made no mention of Ukraine during the call, even as Russian, Ukrainian, and US negotiators convened separately in Abu Dhabi for discussions aimed at resolving the conflict.
China Balances Western Outreach and Moscow Ties
The video call occurred as several Western leaders have increased engagement with Beijing. The British and Canadian prime ministers visited China last month, and the German chancellor is anticipated to travel to Beijing later this month. European leaders have persistently encouraged China to leverage its influence to restrain Russia, yet Beijing continues trading with Moscow, offering some respite from Western sanctions.
Adding to recent diplomatic interactions, Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu visited Beijing last weekend and met with China's top foreign policy official, Wang Yi. According to state media, both parties concurred that Russia and China should maintain close relations in what they described as a turbulent global environment.
The Putin-Xi call is broadly interpreted as a signal that, despite China's outreach to Western capitals, its strategic alignment with Russia remains firmly entrenched.
