Chinese President Xi Jinping departed Moscow on Saturday following a high-profile state visit marked by commemorations of World War II history and reinforced diplomatic ties with Russia. The trip coincided with the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory in the Great Patriotic War, a cornerstone event in Russia's national identity.
Xi's departure featured a formal farewell ceremony at the airport, attended by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and other senior officials. A military honor guard stood at attention as both nations' anthems played, underscoring the ceremonial significance of the visit. Russian Air Force fighter jets later escorted Xi's aircraft as it exited Russian airspace.
The visit drew enthusiastic responses from local residents and Chinese nationals alike. Crowds lined Moscow's streets during Xi's departure, waving Chinese and Russian flags in a display of goodwill. Representatives from Chinese enterprises and overseas students joined the send-off, reflecting the visit's resonance among business and diaspora communities.
Observers note the timing carries contemporary geopolitical weight, occurring amid shifting global alliances. While the visit primarily focused on historical commemorations, analysts suggest it reinforces ongoing economic collaboration between the two nations in energy and infrastructure sectors.
