In a significant demonstration of diplomatic solidarity, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to extend the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation. The decision was made during Putin’s two-day visit to China, underscoring the two countries’ commitment to enhancing political mutual trust, strategic coordination, and practical cooperation against the backdrop of a turbulent international landscape. This development comes as the leaders signed a joint statement and witnessed the signing of 20 cooperation documents spanning areas from trade and education to science and technology.
Marking a milestone in China-Russia relations, this year celebrates the 30th anniversary of their strategic partnership and the 25th anniversary of the treaty’s original signing. Xi noted that the relationship between the two nations has reached unprecedented levels, setting a benchmark for major-country relations. The treaty, which was last renewed in 2021, is based on principles of non-alliance and non-confrontation, and aims to foster equality, mutual respect, and win-win cooperation. Both countries have played pivotal roles in advocating for international fairness and justice, contributing to a multipolar world order.
Economic ties between China and Russia continue to strengthen, with bilateral trade surpassing $200 billion annually for the past three years. This momentum is set to continue, as the leaders aim to align China’s 15th Five-Year Plan with Russia’s development strategy through 2030. Xi emphasized the importance of leveraging established cooperation mechanisms to enhance trade, investment, energy, and technological innovation. Additionally, the extension of visa-free policies until 2027 reflects the commitment to fostering people-to-people exchanges and bolstering social support for bilateral relations.
As permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, China and Russia jointly oppose unilateralism and uphold the authority of the UN. During their talks, Xi and Putin discussed pressing international issues, including the situation in the Middle East. Xi urged for an immediate cessation of hostilities in the region, highlighting the implications for global energy supplies and trade stability. The leaders also reiterated their shared stance against any attempts to undermine the outcomes of World War II or revive militaristic ideologies.
Putin, expressing confidence in the future of bilateral relations, emphasized that the partnership with China is independent of external pressures and serves as a model for international cooperation. Both nations are poised to make significant contributions to global governance through platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS. The visit concluded with a welcoming banquet, symbolizing the deep-rooted friendship and shared aspirations for development and revitalization between the two countries.