Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke by teleconference on Jan. 21, continuing, in the words of Putin, “our good tradition of reviewing the work done over the past period and outlining new plans for the development of the comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation between Russia and China.”
Over the years, Xi and Putin have met 43 times. On Feb. 4, 2022, the two released the pivotal “Joint Statement of the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China on the International Relations Entering a New Era and the Global Sustainable Development,” in which they outlined the underlying concepts to reorder the disintegrating global system. They stated, “The sides believe that peace, development and cooperation lie at the core of the modern international system. Development is a key driver in ensuring the prosperity of the nations.”
After wishing his good friend Putin a happy Chinese New Year, Xi recalled: “In 2024, you and I met three times—in Beijing, Astana, and Kazan—and we reached a number of important agreements. We marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Russia in an impressive setting. Chinese-Russian relations, based on eternal neighborliness and friendship, comprehensive strategic collaboration, mutually beneficial cooperation and mutual benefits, are acquiring new vitality.”
Xi asserted, “This year, we are celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Chinese nation’s Victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese Invaders, the Soviet Union’s Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the 80th anniversary of the UN.” He added, “This year, I am ready, together with you, to elevate Chinese-Russian relations to a new level … for the development and prosperity of both countries and for justice and equality in the world.”