For Moscow, deepening ties with China represents a strategic course, as highlighted by Nikolai Patrushev, the secretary of Russia’s Security Council. During talks with Chen Wenqing, a member of the Chinese Communist Party’s Politburo overseeing police, legal affairs, and intelligence, both sides recognized the significance of the bilateral relationship.
While Beijing refrains from openly denouncing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, President Xi has put forward a peace plan since February, which has received skepticism from the West and cautious welcome from Kyiv. In a European tour promoting peace talks and a political settlement of the crisis, China’s special representative for Eurasian affairs, Li Hui, visited Ukraine and held discussions with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Following the visit to Ukraine, Li Hui is scheduled to visit Russia, further underscoring China’s involvement in the region’s affairs.
Key Highlights:
- Russia’s Prime Minister, Mikhail Mishustin, signs agreements with China, emphasizing the strong bilateral relationship despite Western disapproval during the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
- Russia seeks support from China as Western sanctions intensify, relying on Chinese demand for oil and gas and exploring avenues for deeper economic cooperation.
- The signed agreements encompass investment cooperation, agricultural product exports, sports collaboration, and discussions on energy shipments and technological equipment supplies.
