Russia’s top diplomat, Sergei Lavrov, outlined ambitious, long-term plans for deepening bilateral cooperation with China, emphasizing the strategic partnership as a stabilizing force in global affairs. The remarks came as Lavrov met Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on the fringes of the G20 gathering, where he extended congratulations to Qin on assuming his new role and voiced optimism that their collaboration would sustain continuity and progress across the wide range of topics already discussed with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This includes initiatives spanning commercial, economic, and cultural exchange programs that both capitals have signalled as priorities for the coming years.
Lavrov highlighted the significance of Moscow and Beijing acting in concert to shape international relations, describing their cooperation as a key instrument for stabilizing a shifting global order. He stressed that the agenda ahead is expansive, with a focus on strengthening diplomatic ties, expanding trade and investment, and advancing people-to-people contact as part of a broader foreign policy strategy.
Earlier in the week, Lavrov traveled to India for a three-day working visit during which he planned to participate in an in-depth meeting of G20 foreign ministers in New Delhi. The itinerary also included bilateral discussions with partners from China, Brazil, and other nations, reflecting Moscow’s intent to reinforce multilateral diplomacy and deepen strategic dialogue with major global players.
According to statements from the Russian Foreign Ministry, Lavrov is anticipated to spell out the driving forces behind current global political and economic tensions and to name the principal actors he believes are contributing to these dynamics. The aim is to present a clear assessment of the contemporary international landscape and to outline Russia’s perspective on how to navigate pressing challenges through coordinated policy actions with its partners.
In parallel, veteran officials from both Russia and India reaffirmed a mutual commitment to boosting coordination on global affairs, signaling a shared interest in shaping a multipolar international system. This collaborative posture aligns with broader regional strategies and reflects a deliberate effort to promote stability through enhanced diplomacy, economic resilience, and strategic dialogue among leading world powers.