Beijing, May 16, 2024, The Europe Today: This morning, Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted large-group talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
President Xi warmly welcomed President Putin, emphasizing the significance of his visit as the first foreign trip Putin has made since beginning his new term as president. Xi noted that this visit underscores the importance that both President Putin and the Russian government place on strengthening China-Russia relations, a sentiment that China deeply appreciates.
Highlighting the 75th anniversary of China-Russia diplomatic relations, President Xi remarked that this milestone year represents a significant chapter in the history of bilateral ties. Over the past 75 years, China and Russia have forged a unique path of mutual respect, friendship, and mutually beneficial cooperation, setting a precedent for major and neighboring countries.
Xi pointed out that the relationship between China and Russia has progressed steadily, marked by enhanced comprehensive strategic coordination and deepened cooperation in various sectors, including economy and trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people exchanges. This robust partnership has contributed positively to global strategic stability and has promoted greater democracy in international relations.
This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Xi highlighted that China is committed to advancing its modernization efforts and fostering high-quality development, which will inject new momentum into global economic growth. As permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and major emerging markets, both China and Russia share a strategic choice to deepen their coordination, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, and align with the global trends of multipolarity and economic globalization.
President Xi called for taking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties as a new starting point to further align development strategies and enrich bilateral cooperation, aiming to bring greater benefits to both countries and their peoples. He expressed his readiness to work closely with President Putin to chart the future course of China-Russia relations and to formulate new plans for cooperation across various fields.
The high-level talks between Xi and Putin underscore the enduring strength of China-Russia relations and their commitment to enhancing their strategic partnership for the benefit of their nations and the broader international community.