Xi and Putin deepen ties amid global tensions

China and Russia issued a strong joint declaration on Wednesday warning against unilateral global dominance and the possible return of the “law of the jungle” in international affairs, as Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing for high-level talks.

In the statement released by the Kremlin, both countries criticised attempts by certain nations to manage global affairs “in the spirit of the colonial era,” saying such efforts had failed and were increasing global instability.

The summit came shortly after US President Donald Trump’s visit to Beijing, placing global attention on the growing strategic alignment between Moscow and Beijing. Xi welcomed Putin with a ceremonial honour guard and gun salute at the Great Hall of the People before formal talks and a private tea meeting.

Xi Jinping said the world needs a fair system of governance, and that China and Russia have become closer friends because they trust each other and work hand in hand on strategic projects. Putin said the partnership between China and Russia helps in stabilizing the world affairs, he further promised that Russia will keep sending energy to China with all the problems in the Middle East.

Energy cooperation remained central to the discussions, with Moscow reportedly seeking progress on the long-delayed Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline project. China remains the largest buyer of Russian oil, although key issues such as pricing for the pipeline are still unresolved.

The Kremlin said around 40 agreements and a lengthy joint statement on expanding bilateral cooperation were expected to be signed during the visit, underscoring the continued strengthening of the China-Russia partnership despite Western pressure over the war in Ukraine.