Russia's Putin Hails 'Unprecedented' Ties with China
Caption: PHOTO COURTESY
Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, met in Beijing, with Putin describing their relationship as being at an "unprecedented level."
The meeting was held just before a massive military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of Japan's formal surrender at the end of World War II. Putin called Xi a "dear friend," and state media in China described their relations as exemplary.
The two leaders sealed several agreements, including one for Russia to increase its gas supply to China. In return, China will offer visa-free travel to Russian citizens on a trial basis for one year.
Xi also welcomed North Korea's Kim Jong Un in what appears to be a show of solidarity between the three leaders, who will stand together at the military parade. The meeting comes at a time when China is seeking to project its power and influence on the international stage as a stable trading partner and a diplomatic heavyweight.
Putin did not explicitly mention his country's war in Ukraine during the talks, stating only that they had discussed "issues of common concern." He noted that their close communication reflects the "strategic nature of Russia-China relations," which are at an all-time high.
SOURCE: BBC
Tags: Ukraine Russia War Vladimir Putin Xi Jinping Editor's Pick
