Xi Jinping, Putin Pledge to Elevate China-Russia Relations in New Year
Beijing, The Gulf Observer: Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his commitment to deepening China-Russia relations during a video meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday. Xi emphasized the importance of steering bilateral ties towards new heights and jointly addressing global uncertainties with the stability and resilience of their partnership.
The leaders exchanged festive greetings for the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year and reflected on the milestones of their diplomatic relationship, including the 75th anniversary of China-Russia diplomatic ties marked last year. Xi highlighted the permanent good-neighborly friendship and strategic coordination between the two nations, underscoring their dynamic cooperation across various sectors.
President Xi praised the success of the China-Russia Years of Culture, the growth in bilateral trade, and the two countries’ coordinated efforts on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and BRICS. He called for continued deepening of strategic coordination, mutual support, and safeguarding each nation’s legitimate interests.
Xi also emphasized the significance of 2025 anniversaries, including 80 years since the victories of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War, and the founding of the United Nations. He urged China and Russia to use these milestones to uphold the UN-centered international system, defend World War II outcomes, and promote adherence to the principles of the UN Charter.
As chair of the SCO, Xi reiterated China’s willingness to collaborate with Russia and other member states to usher in a new phase of higher-quality development. He also stressed the importance of enhancing BRICS cooperation and strengthening unity among Global South nations.
President Putin acknowledged the deep trust and equality underpinning China-Russia relations. He expressed satisfaction with the positive momentum in trade, energy collaboration, and increased people-to-people exchanges. Putin reaffirmed Russia’s stance on Taiwan as an inalienable part of China and reiterated opposition to “Taiwan independence” in any form.
The Russian leader reflected on the shared sacrifices of Chinese and Russian people during World War II and pledged to jointly commemorate its 80th anniversary. He underscored Russia’s commitment to multilateral cooperation with China to promote global peace and development.
Both leaders discussed international and regional issues of common interest and agreed to maintain strategic communication throughout the new year.
