On Wednesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged to further extend the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation, highlighting their intent to bolster political mutual trust, strategic coordination, and practical cooperation against the backdrop of a turbulent international landscape. This agreement emerged from discussions held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing just before Putin wrapped up his two-day state visit to China.
Following their talks, Xi and Putin signed a joint statement aimed at enhancing comprehensive strategic coordination and deepening friendly cooperation. They also oversaw the signing of 20 cooperation documents across sectors such as economy, trade, education, and science and technology. Additionally, both sides issued a statement advocating for a multipolar world and new international relations, further solidifying their partnership with 20 agreements covering various fields.
During a joint media address, Xi recognized Putin’s 25th visit to China since assuming the Russian presidency in 2000, underscoring the unique and high-level nature of China-Russia relations. This year marks the 30th anniversary of their strategic partnership, which Xi noted has reached historic heights as a comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era, serving as a model for major-country relations. The year also commemorates the 25th anniversary of the China-Russia Treaty, last extended in June 2021. Xi emphasized that the treaty’s principles of non-alliance, nonconfrontation, and non-targeting of third parties have guided their relationship, contributing significantly to international fairness and justice.
Putin, addressing the media alongside Xi, expressed confidence in the future of Russia-China relations, describing them as self-sufficient and independent of the current international climate. He highlighted the importance of strengthening people-to-people bonds and the bilateral partnership, contributing to the development and revitalization of both nations. Putin also emphasized joint efforts in upholding international law and working within international frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS to tackle pressing global and regional issues.
Furthermore, Xi and Putin discussed major international and regional issues, including the situation in the Middle East, stressing the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities and continued negotiations to stabilize energy supplies and global trade. On a diplomatic note, China and Russia announced the extension of visa-free policies for each other’s citizens until the end of 2027, signifying a deepening of people-to-people exchanges. Xi hosted a welcoming banquet for Putin at the Great Hall of the People’s Golden Hall, marking the end of a significant diplomatic engagement between the two nations.