Moscow, Beijing strengthening ties based on mutual respect

07/10/2024 / By Richard Brown

Moscow and Beijing are solidifying their bilateral ties on the foundation of equality and mutual respect, aiming to enhance the well-being of their respective populations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted this during a significant meeting with Chinese paramount leader Xi Jinping during a meeting that took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Kazakhstan’s capital Astana.

Putin emphasized that the current state of Russia-China relations represents the most prosperous period in their history, emphasizing their comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation. He stressed that these ties are guided by principles such as equality, mutual benefit, and respect for each other’s sovereignty. In response, Xi noted that their regular meetings serve not only as a tradition but also symbolize the exceptional depth and maturity of Russian-Chinese relations. (Related: Putin, Xi pledge stronger partnership as Russia pummels Ukraine.)

Both leaders expressed their commitment to further deepening their cooperation to safeguard the legitimate interests of their nations. Putin characterized this collaboration as a crucial stabilizing factor amidst the unpredictable global landscape.

Recognizing the turbulence and changes in the international arena, Xi emphasized the importance of maintaining their enduring friendship and steadfast commitment to improving the livelihoods of their peoples.

Putin also reaffirmed Russia’s full support for China’s upcoming chairmanship of the SCO from 2024 to 2025, describing the organization as a fundamental pillar of a fair and multipolar world order. Their discussions underscored a shared vision for closer economic, political and security cooperation, reflecting a strategic alignment aimed at bolstering regional stability and global influence.

Beijing reciprocates Moscow’s praises

Xi reciprocated Putin’s sentiment, warmly greeting him as a “dear friend” and affirming the importance of continued strategic coordination and opposition to external interference.

According to a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the paramount leader reiterated China’s support for Russia’s role as the rotating chair of the BRICS group, which unites emerging-market nations from the Global South. He emphasized their joint stance against a “new cold war” and condemned “illegal unilateral sanctions and hegemony.”

Regarding the conflict in Ukraine, Xi reaffirmed China’s commitment to promoting peace talks and a political resolution. He asserted that China stands “always on the right side of history” in its approach to global conflicts.

Since their previous meeting in May, Putin has intensified diplomatic engagements across Asia. Notably, he visited North Korea for the first time in 24 years, signing a mutual defense pact with Kim Jong Un. Additionally, during a visit to Vietnam, Putin addressed concerns about Western nuclear discussions by considering changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine and conducting military exercises involving tactical nuclear weapons.

Both Russia and China have faced increased scrutiny and opposition from Western nations over their military policies and regional influence. In response, they have strengthened alliances and expanded their spheres of influence, as evidenced by the growth of the BRICS bloc and efforts within the SCO.

The SCO has become a significant platform for regional cooperation and influence, according to its Secretary-General Zhang Ming. The group, ostensibly established as a foil to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is set to welcome Belarus as its 10th member.

Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s expressed interest in joining the SCO underscores the organization’s growing importance as a geopolitical entity. Erdogan’s recent meeting with Putin at the SCO summit included discussions on resolving the conflict in Ukraine, reflecting ongoing diplomatic efforts amid geopolitical tensions.

Erdogan’s upcoming participation in a NATO summit in Washington also highlights Turkey’s delicate balancing act between Western alliances and its engagements with Russia and other SCO members.

In a recent address, Xi emphasized the need for Global South nations to assert greater influence on international affairs, advocating for collective efforts to promote global stability and peace. China’s upcoming assumption of the SCO’s rotating presidency and Xi’s scheduled visit to Tajikistan further underscore China’s commitment to regional cooperation and leadership within multilateral frameworks.

Head over to RussiaReport.news for more stories about Vladimir Putin, and visit CommunistChina.news for more stories about Xi Jinping.

Watch this clip of Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping at the SCO Summit in Astana.

This video is from the Cynthia’s Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.