Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have praised the strength of ties between their two countries during a video call as the war in Ukraine approaches another anniversary.
The call comes at a time of heightened global tensions nearly four years after Russia launched its full scale invasion of Ukraine. Both leaders described their relationship as strong and resilient saying it continues to deepen despite international pressure.
President Putin said close coordination between Moscow and Beijing plays an important role in maintaining global stability. He emphasized that cooperation between Russia and China is based on shared interests and mutual respect.
President Xi speaking through an interpreter called on both sides to push forward a long term plan for bilateral cooperation. He said China and Russia should strengthen strategic coordination and expand cooperation across multiple areas.
China and Russia announced a “no limits” strategic partnership just days before the Ukraine war began in February 2022. Since then the relationship has grown closer particularly as Western countries imposed sweeping sanctions on Moscow.
China has become one of Russia’s most important economic partners increasing trade and helping cushion the impact of sanctions linked to the conflict in Ukraine.
The two leaders last met in person in Beijing during a major military parade where Xi said their partnership had withstood international turbulence and global uncertainty.
Following the video call senior diplomats from both countries met in Beijing to discuss global security and other key issues reporting broad agreement on future cooperation.
As the Ukraine war nears another milestone Beijing and Moscow continue to present a united front reinforcing a partnership that remains under close scrutiny from the West.
