Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the robust relationship between China and Russia, highlighting that their ties are built on mutual respect and equality. Speaking to representatives from leading BRICS media outlets, including China’s CGTN, in Moscow, Putin underscored the rapid growth of bilateral trade driven by both nations' commitment to listening and safeguarding each other's interests.
\"This is not an empty phrase, but the reality of bilateral cooperation,\" Putin stated, pointing to the effective trade balance structure achieved through joint efforts. He assured that the focus remains on actionable collaboration rather than mere discussions.
Looking ahead, Putin outlined plans to deepen cooperation in key sectors such as energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and science and technology. He affirmed Russia’s intention to continue enhancing its energy exports to China, including oil and natural gas, and to expand agricultural partnerships.
The president’s remarks come ahead of the BRICS summit in Kazan, marking the first meeting since the group's expansion from five to ten members. Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates joined BRICS on January 1, 2024, alongside founding members Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Putin praised the diverse cultures and unique strengths each new member brings to BRICS, emphasizing that their inclusion fosters a platform for exchanging ideas and expanding cooperation beyond the economy, into areas like culture, film, youth engagement, and people-to-people exchanges.
Addressing the U.S. strategy to contain China's development, Putin asserted that economic growth is an objective process influenced by various factors and cannot be halted by external efforts. He warned that continued attempts to restrain China could have detrimental effects on the U.S. economy, potentially rendering several sectors uncompetitive.
In addition to discussing China-Russia relations, Putin addressed other significant topics such as the Ukraine crisis and the global financial system during his meeting with the media.
Reference(s):
China-Russia ties built on mutual respect: Putin answers CGTN question
cgtn.com
