Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded a four-day state visit to Russia on May 10, emphasizing deepening bilateral cooperation during meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The trip, marking Xi's first international engagement this year, included participation in ceremonies commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War victory — a historical touchpoint resonating with both nations.
During closed-door talks, the leaders discussed advancing the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership, with Putin calling it "a model of inter-state relations." Key outcomes included agreements on expanding energy trade and cross-border infrastructure projects, particularly in natural gas and high-speed rail connectivity between Moscow and key Chinese industrial hubs.
Observers note the timing coincides with growing economic synergies, as bilateral trade surged 28% year-on-year in Q1 2024. "This visit cements Russia's position as a crucial energy supplier to China's manufacturing sector," said geopolitical analyst Li Wei in an interview with KhabarAsia.
The commemorative events also featured cultural exchanges, with Xi attending a Red Square parade showcasing Soviet-era military vehicles and modern Russian defense systems — a subtle nod to shared historical narratives while avoiding overt military alignment rhetoric.
