Putin and Xi Jinping Strengthen Strategic Ties

Putin’s Statements on Relationship with Xi

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed warm sentiments about “old friend” Chinese President Xi Jinping, emphasizing their personal bond. He dismissed suggestions that the conflict in Ukraine had caused a Russian strategic shift towards China.

Putin’s remarks occurred a few weeks after visiting Beijing with Russian officials and business leaders. This marks his 25th visit to China, having met Xi over 40 times since Xi’s rise to power in 2013. They have gained attention for their close relationship, often referred to as a “bromance.”

“I have a good relationship with President Xi Jinping. He calls me ‘old friend,’ and I also call him that,” Putin stated during a Q&A at the 29th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. “This is not an exaggeration,” he added, according to APT News’s translation.

His comments were in response to a question from Fu Hua, president of China’s Xinhua News Agency, about the high level of cooperation between their nations.

The Strategic Alliance

Russia and China have aligned diplomatically, advocating for a multipolar world order as opposed to what they describe as a disorderly U.S.-led dominance.

China’s economic support has been vital for Russia since the Ukraine invasion. In the last year, cross-border trade surged to $228 billion, over 50% more than before the conflict. Moreover, China’s purchase of discounted Russian gas has countered Western sanctions and Europe’s energy shift away from Russia.

Chinese exports of electronics and dual-use goods continue to bolster Russia’s military industry, according to U.S. and European allies.

Historical Context of the Alliance

Putin refuted that Moscow-Beijing ties were a recent development, explaining that the 2001 Treaty of Good-Neighborliness laid the groundwork. He signed this treaty alongside Jiang Zemin, a former Chinese leader.

During Putin’s recent visit, Xi praised a “new stage of greater achievements” in their relations. The leaders issued an extensive joint statement and numerous agreements.

However, they did not finalize the long-awaited Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, intended to double gas exports to China. The project is on hold as negotiations continue and China explores other LNG options amid global market disruptions.

China emerged as the leading importer of Russian oil and gas, compensating for the loss of European markets.

The visit occurred shortly after former U.S. President Donald Trump’s state visit. Trump praised Xi, referring to him as a “great leader,” and extended an invitation to Xi for a visit to Washington.

Attempts were made to contact China’s Foreign Ministry for comments.