Russian President Vladimir Putin has described his ties with Chinese leader Xi Jinping as both personal and businesslike, a view he shared in remarks reported by TASS. He noted China’s continued participation in the Eastern Economic Forum, with this year’s delegation led by Zhang Guoqing, the Deputy Premier of the State Council. Putin asked Guoqing to convey his best wishes to Xi Jinping.
Putin emphasized that his relationship with Xi has grown warmer and more trusted over time, extending beyond personal rapport to the broader arena of bilateral and interstate affairs. He argued that the close personal affinity between the two heads of state supports constructive dialogue, reduces friction, and enhances practical cooperation across trade, investment, regional security, and global governance. This personal bond, according to the Russian leader, helps steer both nations toward shared goals on the world stage.
Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, indicated that Moscow and Beijing anticipate further high‑level talks in the coming months. These conversations are expected to cover a wide range of topics important to both countries, including ongoing economic projects, regional security considerations, and potential multilateral frameworks in which Russia and China participate.
Meanwhile, attention on the international stage turns to the G20 summit in India. Ahead of the gathering, some expect the European Union to engage more directly with Global South partners in Putin and Xi’s absence. European officials such as Ursula von der Leyen, Charles Michel, and Olaf Scholz are anticipated to participate and discuss issues from economic resilience to climate and development initiatives. The summit is shaping up as a moment of strategic realignment in global diplomacy, with major powers watching how regional blocs respond when two of the world’s largest economies step back from formal leadership roles. Observers see this as part of a broader shift toward multipolar diplomacy, where coordination and competition among major powers define responses to new global challenges.
Putin has repeatedly framed the Russia–China relationship as cooperative and mutually respectful, a sentiment he reiterated to reinforce Moscow’s approach to bilateral ties. He argued that the personal affinity between the leaders complements institutional channels and real‑world collaboration, reinforcing confidence in ongoing projects and joint efforts to address shared challenges. At times, such statements are seen as signals of stability and predictability to partners across Eurasia and beyond, underscoring the view of the partnership as a strategic asset. In the broader diplomatic posture, both Moscow and Beijing maintain a pragmatic engagement with other global players while expanding ties with each other.
The link between diplomacy and economic strategy is evident in forums like the Eastern Economic Forum, which serves as a platform for showcasing investment opportunities, trade deals, and joint ventures. The attendance of senior Chinese officials at such events highlights Beijing’s emphasis on deepening ties with Russia as part of its broader aim to diversify international partnerships and advance its regional and global interests. Observers note progress on infrastructure development, energy cooperation, and technological exchange as priorities in the Russia–China partnership.
As the diplomatic calendar unfolds, the Russia–China relationship remains central to policymakers and analysts. Moscow’s consistently positive tone toward Xi Jinping complements Beijing’s broader strategy as both nations seek greater influence while navigating Western-led economic dynamics and regional security concerns. The next months are expected to bring further statements, meetings, and concrete steps illustrating how the partnership evolves in a rapidly changing global environment. The public record, drawn from official remarks and corroborated by major news agencies, portrays two powers advancing cooperation while adapting to new international realities. The world will watch closely as forthcoming discussions unfold and as both capitals pursue a path that emphasizes shared interests and a cooperative approach to common challenges. [TASS]