China-Russia Relations at New High as Xi Meets Putin

In a recent meeting in Beijing, Chinese leader Xi Jinping described China-Russia relations as being at a ‘historic high.’ This comes after Xi hosted U.S. President Donald Trump. During bilateral talks, Xi highlighted profound changes in the international landscape and the potential return to a ‘law of the jungle.’

Xi welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Great Hall of the People with a ceremony similar to that for Trump. The event featured national anthems and a 21-gun salute. Putin’s visit aims to assure China of a strong partnership amid recent ties with the U.S.

Though Xi and Putin did not directly mention the U.S., Xi commented on unilateral hegemonic trends in global affairs. Both leaders have criticized the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran and called for an end to hostilities affecting global energy supplies. Putin emphasized that China-Russia relations are at an ‘unprecedented level’ and affirmed Russia as a reliable energy partner.

Putin used a Chinese idiom, expressing fondness for Xi, and invited him to visit Russia. They signed nearly two dozen agreements, spanning economy, trade, education, and technology. A second gas pipeline project, Power of Siberia 2, was confirmed, although no timeline was set.

The two leaders advocated for a multipolar world and extended the Sino-Russian Treaty of Friendship. They criticized the Trump administration’s missile defense initiatives and commented on the expiring New START nuclear treaty.

Putin’s visit comes as he faces challenges with the ongoing Ukraine conflict, while China maintains a diplomatic and economic partnership with Russia. The Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry denied reports of Xi criticizing Putin’s actions in Ukraine.

A joint statement welcomed China’s role in seeking a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict.

Meanwhile, the Chinese Commerce Ministry detailed U.S.-China agreements. Notably, China will purchase 200 Boeing planes, with the U.S. ensuring supply of aircraft parts. China will also restore access for U.S. beef and poultry imports and establish boards for trade and investment discussions.

The White House announced China’s commitment to buy $17 billion in U.S. agricultural products annually until 2028, though Chinese ministries have yet to confirm.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres noted the significance of Xi’s upcoming visit to the U.S., emphasizing the importance of achieving substantial agreements following the cordial but agreement-light Trump-Xi summit.

Looking ahead, Trump and Xi could meet multiple times this year, with potential encounters at the G20 summit in Miami and the APEC summit in Shenzhen. Russian officials suggested a possible Trump-Putin meeting at the APEC summit.