As global tensions persist over trade protectionism and geopolitical rivalries, China and Russia are set to reinforce their strategic partnership through high-level diplomacy. President Xi Jinping will visit Russia from May 7–10, marking his first state visit in 2024 and attending ceremonies commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War.
Decade of Diplomatic Momentum
Since 2013, Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have met over 40 times, with their cooperation evolving into a 'comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era.' The leaders' rapport has been pivotal: Xi's first foreign visit as China's leader in 2013 was to Russia, while Putin chose China for his inaugural post-2024 re-election trip. Their discussions, described by Putin as 'dialogues between old friends,' have consistently prioritized bilateral trust and global stability.
Trade Growth Amid Uncertainty
Bilateral trade reached a record $244.8 billion in 2024, a 1.9% annual increase, defying global economic headwinds. Andrey Denisov, former Russian ambassador to China, credits this resilience to 'strategic guidance' from both leaders. Analysts like Ma Youjun of Heilongjiang Provincial Academy of Social Sciences emphasize that frequent head-of-state engagement has solidified mutual priorities, including countering unilateralism and enhancing Eurasian connectivity.
Stability as a Global Anchor
January 2025's virtual Xi-Putin summit set expectations for deeper cooperation in energy, technology, and governance. Beijing frames the partnership as a stabilizing force, with the Foreign Ministry stating Xi's visit will 'contribute greater stability and positive energy to the international community.' Ambassador Zhang Hanhui further notes that synchronized leadership ensures relations 'maintain a high level of operation,' positioning both nations to navigate escalating global uncertainties.
