Xi, Putin Discuss Future of China-Russia Relations at SCO Summit in Astana

Astana, The Gulf Observer: Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a pivotal meeting on Wednesday on the sidelines of the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Astana, Kazakhstan. During their discussions, President Xi emphasized the enduring value of China-Russia relations and the importance of exploring new avenues for bilateral cooperation.

Reflecting on Putin’s state visit to China in May, which marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, Xi noted the significant plans they had made for the future development of their relationship. He highlighted the necessity for China and Russia to maintain their long-standing friendship and determination to benefit their peoples amidst a turbulent and changing international landscape.

“The two countries should also make efforts to safeguard their legitimate rights and interests and uphold the basic norms governing international relations,” Xi stated. He expressed his anticipation for in-depth discussions with Putin and other heads of state on SCO cooperation to ensure the organization’s steady, long-term development and to build a closer SCO community with a shared future.

President Putin, in turn, praised the Russia-China relationship as being at its highest historical level, characterized by mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit. He emphasized that the relations serve the welfare of both nations’ peoples, are nonaligned, and are not directed against any third party. Putin reiterated Russia’s support for China in safeguarding its core interests and legitimate rights, particularly against external interference in China’s internal affairs and issues regarding the South China Sea.

With China set to assume the rotating presidency of the SCO, Putin assured full support for China’s efforts. He emphasized Russia’s commitment, along with other member states, to enhancing the international influence of the SCO, maintaining regional peace and security, and pushing the international system toward a more just and reasonable direction.

As the current rotating chair of BRICS, Russia also looks forward to strengthening communication and cooperation with China regarding BRICS initiatives, Putin added.

The two leaders also exchanged views on various international and regional issues of mutual concern. Xi reaffirmed China’s stance of promoting peace and negotiations and expressed China’s willingness to continue making positive efforts to resolve regional hotspot issues, such as the Ukraine crisis, through political means.

This meeting between Xi and Putin underscores the strategic importance of China-Russia relations and their shared commitment to fostering a stable, cooperative international environment through the SCO and other multilateral platforms.