Russian President Vladimir Putin rolled out the red carpet for “dear friend,” Chinese leader Xi Jinping, and greeted each other on the second day of their meetings in Moscow.
Despite suspicions in the West that the visit is aimed more at propping up Russia and advancing Beijing’s self-interests, Putin and Xi signed an economic deal that deepens their partnership — and demanded an end to measures that are increasing tensions in the protracted war in Ukraine.
In a speech, the Russian president said: “Of course, we did not ignore the situation regarding Ukraine. We believe that many points in the peace plan put forward by China are in line with the Russian approach and can be considered as the basis for a peace settlement when the West and Kiev are ready for it. But this readiness was not noticed by anyone.” their side.”
Since the war began, Russia has become more dependent on China.
China supports the Russian economy amid Western sanctions by buying its energy, replacing Western suppliers in electronics, cars and aircraft, and providing an alternative to the US dollar.
Xi invited Putin to visit China this year and told the Russian president that they “share similar goals.” Putin, for his part, said Russia had closely studied Beijing’s peace proposal for Ukraine, a plan Washington says would strengthen Russia’s grip on occupied territories.
China and Russia have complex histories, but their mutual and hostile relationship with Washington brings them closer together. According to John Kirby, strategic communications coordinator for the US National Security Council, “This is a marriage of convenience, not a marriage of affection.”
In Russia, however, there is some derision of Beijing’s motives. On a talk show on Russian state television, a military analyst said, “China can only have one ally: China itself. China can only have one set of interests: pro-Chinese interests. Chinese foreign policy is completely altruistic.”
But the Chinese state media is overworking and promoting the benefits of the Russia-China relationship. All positive comments on social media, which is heavily censored in China.
By meeting Putin, Xi wants to highlight his role as a global statesman who can offer an alternative to the current world order.
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