Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have reaffirmed the strength of China-Russia relations during a meeting at the 24th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Astana, Kazakhstan.
Meeting on the sidelines of the summit, President Xi emphasized the unique value of the partnership between the two nations. He urged both countries to explore new avenues for bilateral cooperation and to uphold their commitment to lasting friendship, especially amid global turbulence and changing international dynamics.
“Facing an international situation fraught with turbulence and changes, we should continue to uphold our original aspiration of lasting friendship and remain determined to benefit our peoples,” Xi stated.
Reflecting on President Putin’s state visit to China in May, which marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, Xi noted the significant plans they had laid out for future development. He expressed anticipation for in-depth discussions on enhancing SCO cooperation to promote the organization’s steady and long-term development.
President Putin praised the current state of Russia-Russia relations, describing them as being at their highest historical level, characterized by mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit. He affirmed that the relationship serves the welfare of both peoples, is nonaligned, and is not directed against any third party.
“Russia supports China in safeguarding its core interests and legitimate rights,” Putin said, opposing any external interference in China’s internal affairs, including matters regarding the South China Sea.
With China poised to assume the rotating presidency of the SCO, Putin expressed Russia’s full support. He highlighted the importance of working with other member states to enhance the organization’s international influence, maintain regional peace and security, and guide the international system toward a more just and reasonable direction.
As the current rotating chair of BRICS, Putin also looked forward to strengthening communication and cooperation with China within that framework.
The two leaders exchanged views on international and regional issues of common concern, including the Ukraine crisis. President Xi reiterated China’s stance on promoting peace and negotiations and its willingness to contribute positively to the political resolution of regional hotspot issues.
“China always stands on the right side of history,” Xi affirmed. “We insist on promoting peace and negotiations and are willing to continue making positive efforts toward political resolutions.”
The meeting underscored the deepening ties between China and Russia and their shared commitment to cooperation within international organizations such as the SCO and BRICS. Their dialogue highlighted a mutual desire to navigate global challenges together, emphasizing stability, development, and mutual support.
Reference(s):
Xi Jinping urges China, Russia to preserve unique value of ties
cgtn.com
