Putin Expresses Openness to Dialogue on Ukraine, Praises China’s Role

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed openness to dialogue on the Ukraine crisis, highlighting Russia’s willingness to seek a peaceful resolution. In a written interview with Xinhua News Agency on the eve of his state visit to China, Putin commended China’s constructive role in addressing the conflict.

Putin noted that China clearly understands the roots of the Ukraine crisis and its global geopolitical impact. He referred to the “China’s Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis,” a 12-point proposition issued by China in February 2023, stating that it demonstrates China’s sincere desire to stabilize the situation.

“The concepts and suggestions indicated in the document demonstrate the sincere desire of China to stabilize the situation,” Putin said. He emphasized that the four principles for the peaceful resolution recently proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping seamlessly fit within this framework.

“We have never refused to negotiate,” Putin stated. “We are seeking a comprehensive, sustainable, and just settlement of this conflict through peaceful means. We are open to a dialogue on Ukraine, but such negotiations must take into account the interests of all countries involved in the conflict, including ours.”

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Beyond the Ukraine crisis, Putin highlighted the robust development of Russia-China relations. He emphasized that both nations are promoting mutual prosperity through expanded cooperation in economic and cultural fields.

According to Putin, trade between Russia and China has doubled in the past five years, with China being Russia’s largest trading partner for 13 consecutive years. In 2023, Russia ranked fourth among China’s trading partners. He noted that more than 90 percent of transactions between companies from the two countries are now settled in their national currencies.

“We are systematically and consistently developing strategic cooperation in the energy sector, working on new large-scale energy projects,” Putin explained. He also mentioned positive dynamics in the supply of Russian agricultural products to the Chinese market and the implementation of investment and production initiatives.

“I believe that Russian-Chinese economic ties have great prospects,” he said. “We will try to establish closer cooperation in industry and high-tech, outer space and peaceful atom, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and other innovative sectors.”

Cultural Exchange and Mutual Appreciation

Putin underscored the cultural connections between Russia and China, noting high interest in Chinese culture and arts within Russian society. He remarked that approximately 90,000 Russian students are learning Chinese at various educational levels, and that tours and exhibitions involving Chinese artists are highly successful in Russia.

The Russian president also shared his personal appreciation for Chinese culture. “I am always eager to discover China’s unique and authentic traditions, especially during my visits to China,” he said. “I know quite a bit about your martial arts, including Wushu, which is very popular in our country. I also have respect for Chinese philosophy. My family members are also interested in China, and some of them are learning Chinese.”

He expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming Years of Culture between Russia and China in 2024 and 2025, anticipating further cultural exchanges and mutual understanding between the two nations.