Putin, Xi see Russia-China relations at unprecedented high level
China and Russia have expanded trade and defense ties over the past decade, improving their relationship to unprecedented levels.
According to the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that Russian-Chinese relations are at an unprecedented high level and are constantly improving.
"Russian President Vladimir Putin had a phone conversation with President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping, during which a thorough exchange of views was held on a wide range of issues on the bilateral and international agenda. The leaders stated that Russian-Chinese relations are at an unprecedented high level and are constantly improving. They reaffirmed desire to consistently deepen comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation in all areas," the statement says.
Putin outlined his fundamental assessments of the situation in Ukraine and the tasks being completed during the special military operation in a conversation with Xi Jinping.
"Vladimir Putin outlined his fundamental assessments of the situation in Ukraine and the tasks being solved in the course of a special military operation. The Chinese President noted the legitimacy of Russia's actions to protect fundamental national interests in the face of challenges to its security created by external forces," the statement says.
Putin and Xi emphasized that Russia and China shared or had very similar positions on many international issues, and they reaffirmed their willingness to strengthen coordination and mutual support on the UN platform.
The leaders agreed to maintain bilateral contacts at both the head of state and ministry and department levels. It is emphasized that traditionally, the conversation was warm and friendly.
China supports Russia
Today, China revealed it is prepared to continue mutual assistance with Russia on matters of sovereignty and security, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday during a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
CCTV quoted the Chinese President as saying, "China is ready to continue to support each other with Russia on critical issues such as sovereignty and security, and strengthen strategic cooperation between the two countries."
Xi Jinping also stated that China is willing to enhance cooperation with Russia within important international and regional organizations such as the UN, BRICS, and the SCO.
Russian trade with China
Earlier, the Russian foreign ministry revealed that it expects commodity flows with China to grow and trade with Beijing to reach $200 billion by 2024, according to the Interfax news agency.
The West-led sanctions on Russia have driven Moscow to shift its economic ties and cooperation toward the East.
The ministry contended that Chinese companies must be cautious of the risks of subjection to secondary sanctions; however, Beijing is ready to expand cooperation with Moscow nonetheless.