Xi Jinping Reaffirms Strategic Partnership with Russia During Moscow Visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping has voiced strong support for closer ties with Russia during a four-day visit to Moscow, marking the anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, Al Jazeera reports.

The visit underscores the growing partnership between the two countries amid global geopolitical shifts and ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Speaking alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, Xi said China stands opposed to what he described as “unilateralism and hegemonic bullying,” signaling alignment with Russia’s pushback against Western influence. The remarks came during a ceremonial event commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany.

“In the face of the international counter-current of unilateralism and hegemonic bullying behaviour, China will work with Russia to shoulder the special responsibilities of major world powers,” Xi stated.

Putin welcomed Xi as a “dear friend”.

“Together with our Chinese friends, we firmly stand guard over historical truth, protect the memory of the events of the war years and counteract modern manifestations of neo-Nazism and militarism,” Putin said.

Strategic and Economic Ties

The visit is expected to result in a number of bilateral agreements aimed at deepening the China-Russia partnership, which was formally elevated to a “no-limits” strategic alliance in early 2022.

Xi’s presence in Moscow also comes at a time of renewed US diplomatic activity in the region. President Donald Trump is encouraging both Moscow and Kyiv to pursue peace negotiations, amid signs of a potential recalibration of Washington’s approach to the war.