Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in extensive discussions regarding their bilateral ties and significant international matters, such as Iran, the Ukraine conflict, and commerce.
Their discussions gained importance as the two leaders convened shortly after US President Donald Trump's trip to Beijing from May 14-15, where he engaged in comprehensive talks with Xi on topics including Iran, the Ukraine conflict, bilateral trade tensions, and regional matters.
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Prior to the discussions at the Great Hall of the People, Xi gave Putin a ceremonial reception. The formal greeting was succeeded by discussions between the two parties and Putin was welcomed by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
In a video message prior to his visit, Putin stated that Russia-China relations had attained “a truly unprecedented level.”
He stated that consistent high-level dialogues between the two nations are essential for enhancing bilateral relations and realizing their "boundless potential."
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The Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that Xi and Putin would share perspectives on their bilateral relations, collaboration in different areas, and international and regional matters of shared concern.
"This is Putin's 25th visit to China," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun told a media briefing, emphasising close strategic ties between Beijing and Moscow and the personal rapport between the two leaders.
"The two sides will take this visit as an opportunity to continue to promote the development of China-Russia relations to a higher level, which will inject greater stability and positive energy into the world," Guo says.
Since Xi took office in 2012, the two leaders have met numerous times, often calling each other “dear friend” and emphasizing mutual trust.
Analysts perceive the Xi-Putin connection as one of the most important political alliances in current global matters, highlighted by increasing collaboration in trade, energy, and security, along with attempts to diminish Western influence.
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Putin's trip arrives during increased worldwide worries regarding tensions in West Asia after Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the US takeover of Iranian harbors. Iran continues to be a key strategic ally of both Russia and China. China acquires 90 percent of Iranian oil despite American sanctions.