Strengthening Beijing-Moscow Ties: Putin's Visit to China
Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to embark on a visit to China in May, according to the state publication Tass.
This visit potentially marks Putin's inaugural trip abroad following his fifth-term victory in the March presidential elections, widely deemed illegitimate, including by the Council of Europe.
While numerous Western leaders have condemned the election, Chinese President Xi Jinping has extended felicitations to the Kremlin leader and committed to "maintaining close communication" between the two nations.
Beijing has actively fostered robust ties with Moscow amid its extensive conflict with Ukraine, fostering economic cooperation and thwarting Western endeavours to isolate Russia. Additionally, China has explored potential peace negotiations, emphasising the imperative inclusion of Moscow in discussions.
During the congress of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Russia in Moscow on April 25, Putin refrained from specifying the precise date of his visit to China or providing further details.
Meanwhile, Reuters has reported that Putin is likely to visit China in the latter half of May.
China officially declares itself a neutral entity in Russia's large-scale conflict in Ukraine, although Washington persists in voicing concerns over Beijing's support for Moscow's defence industry.
Previously, Beijing has responded to criticisms of its partnership with Moscow by affirming the entitlement of both nations to engage in "normal cooperation."
Translation by Iurie Tataru
