Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a video meeting on Tuesday, according to Chinese state media, with the aim of deepening ties between Beijing and Moscow.
The discussion, held at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, was reported by state broadcaster CCTV but lacked immediate details about the agenda or outcomes.
China has consistently positioned itself as a neutral party since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. However, its close political and economic ties with Moscow, coupled with its refusal to condemn the war, have prompted some Nato members to label Beijing an “enabler” of the conflict.
The relationship between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin has been a focal point of this partnership. Xi has referred to Putin as his “best friend,” while Putin has described Xi as a “reliable partner”.
Xi has repeatedly iterated China’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Russia. “China is ready to join Putin to constantly expand all-round pragmatic cooperation between our two countries,” Xi had said, emphasising the importance of “permanent good-neighborly friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination, and mutually beneficial cooperation.”
The talks reflect the growing alignment between China and Russia, particularly since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in 2022. Facing heavy economic sanctions from the West, Moscow has turned to Beijing to bolster trade and support.
The two nations have repeatedly criticised what they describe as “Western hegemony,” particularly US dominance in global affairs, and declared a “no limits” partnership just weeks before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The video meeting comes after President Donald Trump assumed office. Putin, in a televised address, extended his congratulations to Trump and signaled openness to dialogue on the Ukraine crisis. “The goal should not be a brief truce but a lasting peace based on respect for the legitimate interests of all people,” Putin said, hinting at potential shifts in international diplomacy under the new US administration.
