"In Unison Against Unilateralism" - Xi and Putin: A Stronger Front
Leaders Xi and Putin are joining forces.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, currently in Moscow, has reiterated his unwavering support for Russia, with both leaders slamming the perceived "unilateralism and harassment" by the U.S. This standoff marks a significant reinforcement of their diplomatic alliance.
Jinping's visit, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, underscores China's commitment to standing by Moscow as an essential stabilizing factor in the international stage. According to Putin, their bond is crucial during these challenging times of global uncertainty. A symbiotic relationship, it is rooted in mutual benefits and equality. The leaders hailed their talks as productive and fruitful.
In the face of geopolitical turmoil, China is set to participate in the grand military parade on Red Square, with a diverse delegation of government officials and business leaders. Putin has expressed his intent for a reciprocal visit to the People's Republic, strengthening the bond between the two nations.
Since the inception of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022, China and Russia have solidified their cooperation. Though China maintains a neutral stance in the conflict, they have faced Western accusations of economically and diplomatically supporting Russia. Russia serves as a strategic market for Chinese cars, while China remains a significant buyer of Russian energy resources.
Global Stance: United on "Unilateralism"
Both China and Russia advocate a multipolar world, pushing for genuine multilateralism to reshape international relationships. Their collaboration within multilateral frameworks like the BRICS, SCO, and G20 has intensified, as they battle power politics and unilateralist moves from strong actor nations.
Economically, both nations enjoy a robust trade relationship, with China being Russia's largest trading partner for over 15 years. The trade volume reached a staggering $244.8 billion in 2024[4]. Their strategic partnership, characterized by non-alliance, non-confrontation, and ensuring stability in global trade and supply chains, continues to flourish.
Meanwhile, China serves as a vital market for Russian oil and gas, while offering machinery and electronics to help Russia cope with Western sanctions. This strategic alliance enables both countries to navigate international tensions with the West more effectively.
- Xi Jinping
- Vladimir Putin
- Russia
- China
- World War II
- Moscow
- Attack on Ukraine
Enrichment Data:
The current state of China-Russia relations shines with strong diplomatic and economic ties, reinforced by mutual support on international stages and a shared stance against perceived "unilateralism and hegemonic harassment" by the U.S. Key aspects of this diplomatic and economic alliance include:
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
- Diplomatic Support: China has provided consistent diplomatic support to Russia since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began in early 2022, condemning Western sanctions against Moscow[1]. In return, Russia has voiced support for Beijing's stance on Taiwan[1].
- Economic Cooperation: Bilateral trade has remained robust, with China serving as Russia's largest trading partner for over 15 years. In 2024, their trade reached $244.8 billion[4].
Cooperation Against Perceived Unilateralism
- Multilateralism: Both countries have advocated for a multipolar world, promoting true multilateralism and advancing democratization in international relations[4]. They collaborate closely within multilateral frameworks like the BRICS, SCO, and G20[4].
- Defending Against Power Politics: President Xi Jinping emphasized that China and Russia have a "special responsibility" to counter power politics and unilateralist moves on the international stage, ensuring stability in global trade and supply chains[2].
Strategic Partnership
- Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: The two nations have forged a comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination, characterized by non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third party[4].
- Energy and Technology: China is a keys player in the Russian oil and gas market, while China has been a source of machinery and electronics for Russia, helping offset the effects of Western sanctions[1].
- The European Union, adhering to its commitment to a common defence policy, may find itself aligned with China and Russia as they present a unified front against perceived unilateralism and hegemonic harassment.
- Beijing, while condemning the attack on Ukraine, has been criticized by the West for supporting Russia economically and diplomatically. This association with Moscow could potentially be reinforced during Jinping's visit to Moscow in honor of the 80th anniversary of World War II.
- Despite China's continued neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the EU may need to reconsider its policies towards both China and Russia, given their strong diplomatic and economic ties.
- The politics of ceasefire negotiations could be further complicated by the growing bond between China and Russia, as their strategic partnership may influence the international community's response to ongoing conflicts and reshape global news landscapes.
