Russian President Vladimir Putin’s arrival in Beijing early on Thursday marks a significant moment for geopolitical dynamics, as he engages in talks with counterpart Xi Jinping to deepen the strategic partnership between their nations, the two most formidable geopolitical rivals of the United States.
The partnership between China and Russia, described as “no limits,” was declared in February 2022 during Putin’s visit to Beijing, just before the escalation of tensions with Ukraine. By choosing China for his first foreign trip since his recent re-election, Putin underscores the importance of this relationship and his close personal bond with Xi.
In an interview, Putin lauded Xi for fostering a “strategic partnership” grounded in national interests and mutual trust. This high level of partnership influenced Putin’s decision to prioritize China as his first state visit after his re-election.
The agenda of their discussions encompasses various fields including industry, high technology, space exploration, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy sources. The informal talks over tea and dinner are expected to play a crucial role during Putin’s two-day trip.
Key topics on the agenda include discussions on Ukraine, Asia, energy, and trade. Putin is accompanied by top officials, including his defense minister, foreign minister, and powerful CEOs from Russia.
The visit also coincides with a gala celebration marking 75 years since the Soviet Union recognized the People’s Republic of China. This event has garnered significant attention on Chinese social media platforms, highlighting the importance of this diplomatic engagement.
The close ties between China and Russia have drawn scrutiny from Western governments, particularly amidst sanctions imposed on both nations. However, the relationship is seen as crucial for both countries amidst global geopolitical shifts.
Putin’s visit to Harbin, with its historic ties to Russia, underscores the deepening economic and cultural links between the two nations. The opening of a mall featuring Russian-made goods further signifies the strengthening trade relations.
While the United States perceives China as its main competitor and Russia as a significant threat, the alignment between Putin and Xi reflects a shared worldview challenging Western dominance across various domains. Despite Western concerns, China’s role in bolstering Russia amid sanctions underscores the evolving dynamics of global power relations.
Putin’s visit to Beijing follows recent diplomatic engagements, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s mission to warn against deepening military support for Russia. These interactions highlight the complex interplay of global powers in shaping contemporary geopolitics.
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