Xi and Putin's "Mutual Benefit" Shows No signs of Stumbling
Leaders Xi and Putin to join forces: Collaboration imminent between the two powerful leaders.
In the heart of Moscow, Xi Jinping, China's President, takes center stage as the guest of honor, marking the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany's defeat. This visit serves as a platform for Xi and his counterpart, Vladimir Putin, to reiterate their unwavering support, a stance bolstered by the "obstruction" they perceive from the USA.
Xi vocalized China's steadfastness in backing Russia during a time where international relations seem to favor unilateralism and aggressive posturing. This message is a not-so-subtle jab at the domestic and foreign policies of the USA.
"In these troubled geopolitical waters and global uncertainty, China and Russia's foreign policy draft is the most important stabilizing factor on the international stage," Putin asserted. He further stressed the "mutual advantage" and "equal footing" that underpin the relationship between the two nations, complimenting Xi on their fruitful discussions.
Putin's Counter-Visit on the Horizon
Xi's journey to Moscow began with a delegation of government officials and business leaders, with plans for Xi to be the focal point at the grand military parade on Red Square, scheduled for this Friday. Other international heads of state and government are expected to attend this historic event. Chinese soldiers will join their Russian counterparts in the parade, with China traditionally celebrating the end of World War II in early September. Putin has expressed his intention to reciprocate with a visit to the People's Republic at a later date.
Since the beginning of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, relations between Russia and China have intensified. China has played a neutral role in the ongoing conflict, according to other nations, but has faced accusations of providing economic and diplomatic support to Russia. Russia serves as a crucial market for Chinese automobiles, while China prioritizes the purchase of Russian energy resources such as gas and oil, reinforcing Putin's war chest.
Tensions Escalate in Ukraine
Putin had instructed the Russian army to disarm temporarily in light of the celebratory events, with the ceasefire taking effect in the early hours of Wednesday to Thursday. However, Ukraine swiftly accused Russia of breaking the truce after a few hours, reporting attacks on the Sumy region with guided bombs at night. While Russia maintained that it was adhering to the ceasefire, it attributed the aggression to violations by the Ukrainian army.
- Xi Jinping
- Vladimir Putin
- Russia
- China
- World War II
- Moscow
- Ukraine Conflict
Enrichment Data:
Overall:
China and Russia's partnership has grown stronger over the years as they face increasing tension from the West. This alliance has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership, characterized by non-aggression, non-interference, and non-targeting of a third party[5].
Key Developments
- Economic Ties: China has been Russia's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching $244.8 billion in 2024[5]. Talks surrounding trade and energy supply focus on using national currencies for settlements to strengthen economic ties[3][1].
- Strategic Cooperation: China and Russia have been working in tandem in multilateral forums, advocating for harmonious global governance, and opposing unilateralism. They share a commitment to maintaining global peace and stability[2][3].
- Diplomatic Support: China has been a strong supporter of Russia, particularly during the Ukraine conflict, voicing condemnation of Western sanctions and providing essential machinery and electronics after the imposition of western sanctions[1].
- Shared Views on Global Order: Both nations view themselves as having a special vested interest in countering power politics and maintaining global stability, even in the face of Western critique[3].
Impact of Global Events
Ukraine Conflict
The ongoing Ukraine conflict has served to strengthen China and Russia's bond, as Beijing continues to extend diplomatic support to Moscow, but refrains from direct military involvement[1]. Despite this, incidents like the capture of Chinese nationals fighting for Russia have raised concerns about China's indirect role in the conflict[1].
World War II Commemorations
Recent visits by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Russia, such as the Victory Day commemorations, highlight the significance of their partnership. These events emphasize the historical bonds and shared interests between the two nations, solidifying their commitment to a harmonious global order[2][3].
Relations with the United States
The deepening of China-Russia ties is largely a response to perceived pressure from the United States and other Western countries. Both nations believe their alliance serves to counterbalance Western influence and advance their vision of a multipolar world[4][5]. Amidst rising global tensions, this partnership allows them to present a united front against what they perceive as power politics[3].
- Amidst the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany's defeat in Moscow, Chinese President Xi Jinping, while marking this milestone, emphasized China's commitment to supporting Russia, a stance against the perceived unilateralism and aggressive posturing of the USA.
- Vladimir Putin, in response to Xi Jinping's visit, expressed his intention to reciprocate with a visit to the People's Republic of China, further strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations.
- Before Putin's counter-visit, China and Russia's bond has been tested by the ongoing Ukraine conflict, with China providing diplomatic support to Russia, despite maintaining a neutral role in the conflict.
- The European Union, committed to a comprehensive and comprehensive policy on the environment, stands against the politics of unilateralism and aggressive posturing, observing the escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia, as well as the growing alliance between China and Russia.
