The Russian and Chinese Presidents held a video call today, with both saying that this has become a tradition to touch base at the end of the year. Xi Jinping said that the China-Russia strategic partnership has become more mature and tenacious, and the endogenous driving force and special value of the cooperation between the two countries have further emerged. There has been an increase of trade in the first 11 months of this year, with energy cooperation as “the ballast stone.” In the new year, he said, they should increase their practical cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, energy, finance and agriculture and promote the construction of interconnection facilities such as ports, and expand energy cooperation.
They exchanged views on Ukraine, with Xi stressing that Russia has never refused to resolve the conflict through diplomatic negotiations, and expressed his appreciation for it. “The road to peace talks will not be smooth, but as long as the efforts are not given up on, the prospect of peace will always exist,” he said. China will continue to play a constructive role in peacefully resolving the Ukrainian crisis. (https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/zxxx_662805/202212/t20221230_10999132.html )
Vladimir Putin said that Russia appreciates China’s objective and fair stance in international affairs, and spoke highly of China’s work as the chair of the BRICS. Putin invited Xi to Moscow. “Intensive bilateral exchanges will continue next year. I am certain that you and I will find an opportunity to meet in person. We are expecting you … my dear friend, for a state visit in Moscow in the spring of next year,” he said. (http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/70303 )
Xi likewise called Putin a friend, and remarked that under their joint leadership “the comprehensive Chinese-Russian partnership and strategic cooperation in a new age demonstrates maturity and resilience to stress.”
