In a significant move that underscores the enduring bond between two of the world's major powers, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Beijing to sign a joint statement aimed at deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between their nations. This meeting coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties, highlighting decades of collaboration and mutual support.
During a joint conference on Thursday, President Xi emphasized that the China-Russia relationship has not only weathered numerous challenges over the past 75 years but has also emerged as a prime example of a new form of international relations. He lauded the partnership as a model of good-neighborly relations between two influential countries.
Setting the Tone for Future Cooperation
Putin's visit to China marks his first foreign trip since assuming the presidency earlier this month. Earlier this year, in March 2023, President Xi selected Russia as his inaugural foreign destination following his re-election, signaling the importance of this bilateral relationship. During his visit to Moscow, Xi described the relationship as entering a "new era," and in October, he spoke of the "deep friendship" between the two leaders during Putin's recent visit to Beijing.
Prior to the two-day summit, Putin highlighted that choosing China as his first foreign destination as president underscores the "unprecedented level of the strategic partnership" between China and Russia. This sentiment was echoed in Thursday's discussions, where both leaders reflected on the successful development of bilateral ties over the decades.
President Xi articulated his vision for the future, stating that the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties should serve as a new starting point. He advocated for synergizing development strategies and continuing to enrich bilateral cooperation to meet the evolving global landscape.
Expert insights from Wei Jinshen, an associate professor at the School of Politics and International Relations of China's Lanzhou University, underscore the significance of this summit. Wei stated, \"Head-of-state diplomacy plays an important role in guiding and promoting the development of China-Russia relations.\" He believes that the meetings will set a positive trajectory for the next six years, ensuring the sustained high-level development of the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in this new era.
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Expert: Xi-Putin meeting in Beijing sets tone for development of ties
cgtn.com
