Chinese President Xi Jinping praised China and Russia’s “unyielding” ties during talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing on Wednesday.
The meeting took place days after US President Donald Trump visited China.
Xi welcomed Putin at the Great Hall of the People with military honours, chanting children, and an official ceremony similar to Trump’s reception last week.
However, the tone of the meeting appeared noticeably warmer.
Leaders Sign Trade and Energy Agreements
During the talks, both leaders praised their countries’ growing partnership and extended their treaty of “friendly cooperation”.
Xi said China and Russia had strengthened political trust and strategic coordination despite global challenges.
Meanwhile, Putin described bilateral relations as being at an “unprecedentedly high level”.
The two sides signed several agreements covering trade, media, and energy cooperation.
Later, Xi and Putin held private tea talks focused on Ukraine, Iran, and relations with the United States.
Russia Pushes Energy Cooperation With China
Analysts believe Putin used the visit to seek progress on the “Power of Siberia 2” gas pipeline project linking Russia and China through Mongolia.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said both countries had reached a basic understanding on the route and construction plans. However, he added that some details still need discussion.
Putin also offered Russia as a reliable energy supplier to China amid disruptions caused by the Middle East conflict.
He said Russia remains ready to supply fuel to China’s growing market.
China Calls for Ceasefire in Middle East
Despite strong cooperation with Moscow, China signalled concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Xi told Putin that a comprehensive ceasefire remains urgently needed and warned against renewed hostilities.
China has repeatedly called for negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. However, Beijing has avoided condemning Russia’s invasion and continues to present itself as a neutral party.
The Kremlin later said Russia welcomed China’s “objective and unbiased” stance on the Ukraine conflict.
Global Focus on China-Russia Relations
The meeting comes as China hosts several world leaders amid rising global uncertainty and shifting alliances.
Many countries have urged Beijing to use its influence with Russia and Iran to help reduce international tensions.
Last week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asked Trump to discuss ending the Ukraine war during his Beijing visit. However, no major breakthrough emerged from those talks.
