Russian President Vladimir Putin has signaled progress toward closer alignment with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, describing Moscow as nearing alignment with the One Belt, One Road framework. The remarks were carried by the state news agency TASS, which quoted the president as noting a positive reception of the Chinese plan and stressing continued collaboration. Putin added that Russia is actively working with China and is prepared to keep expanding joint efforts, underscoring a shared strategic vision for regional development and connectivity.
In his comments, Putin stressed that the Eurasian Economic Union has goals that mirror the One Belt, One Road ambitions. He argued that the ideas underpinning the Eurasian project dovetail with Chinese initiatives, reinforcing the sense that both blocs are pursuing complementary paths to bolster trade, infrastructure, and economic integration across Eurasia. This perspective aligns Moscow with Beijing as both nations seek to widen infrastructure networks, reduce trade frictions, and enhance regional influence through coordinated development plans.
Putin also indicated that his travel schedule remains open, acknowledging the possibility of visits outside China but clarifying that no concrete international trip plans have been finalized. He highlighted Russia’s current domestic priorities, noting that there are numerous unresolved internal issues requiring careful attention before any international commitments can be pursued. The emphasis on prioritizing internal stability suggests a cautious approach to diplomacy while exploring strategic partnerships on the global stage.
During a Kremlin briefing on October 13, press secretary Dmitry Peskov stated that Putin had received an invitation to visit Iraq. Peskov described the invitation as part of ongoing discussions but did not disclose further details. The disclosure came as Moscow seeks to balance its regional diplomacy with broader international engagement, and as Iraq expresses interest in deeper collaboration with Russia on economic and security matters.
Earlier, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani had noted that Baghdad is weighing the possibility of integrating its North-South and Development Paths infrastructure projects with Russian efforts. The discussions reflect a regional push to link major infrastructure corridors and investment initiatives with Moscow, potentially expanding Russia’s footprint in the Middle East while aligning with broader Eurasian connectivity goals. Analysts view these talks as part of a broader trend in which major powers seek to anchor their influence through joint development projects and multiregional frameworks that span Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
This evolving conversation comes at a time when China’s Belt and Road Initiative continues to shape global infrastructure investment and trade routes. Washington-based and European observers alike track how Moscow’s cooperation with Beijing might influence regional security, economic policy, and supply chain realignment. The emphasis on shared roadmaps, cross-border corridors, and financial frameworks signals a strategic move toward deeper economic integration across vast areas, with Moscow presenting itself as a pivotal partner in expanding Eurasian connectivity and reinforcing a multi-polar order. Attribution: TASS, Kremlin briefings, and statements from Iraqi and Russian leaders.”