Chinese President Xi Jinping is slated to travel to Moscow from March 20 to 23 at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to the Kremlin website. The visit centers on strengthening the bilateral relationship and expanding cooperation between China and Russia on the world stage. Officials anticipate the signing of several key bilateral documents during the talks.
Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov told RIA Novosti that Xi will arrive in Moscow on March 20 and will not plan to visit other cities. He said the leaders will begin discussions in the afternoon of March 20, with an informal lunch planned. March 21 is designated for negotiations, and Yuri Ushakov, the deputy president, will provide a special briefing on the visit.
China’s Foreign Ministry emphasized that Beijing will take an objective stance on the Ukraine conflict and will address bilateral ties along with international and regional issues. A Chinese diplomat stated that China will maintain a neutral and fair position on the Ukraine crisis and seek to play a constructive role in advancing peace talks.
Wang Wenbin, spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that Xi Jinping’s visit to Russia is intended to deepen trust and mutual understanding between Beijing and Moscow. He described the trip as a friendly one, stressing that it will be peaceful and will not target any third parties. The press briefing highlighted that both sides aim to practice genuine multilateralism based on non confrontation, non interference, and non targeting of others while promoting a multipolar world, stronger global governance, and shared development.
Independent coverage from The Wall Street Journal suggested that Beijing’s leadership may consider additional European stops and a possible online discussion with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after the Moscow visit. The report framed Xi’s trip as part of Beijing’s broader effort to play a more active role in resolving the Ukraine crisis. A later WSJ update indicated that the visit could extend into April or May and that Beijing seeks to counter Western distrust and potential sanctions while supporting Russia in managing economic pressures elsewhere.
In preparation for the trip, the initial signal came from China’s position on engaging in dialogue. The Russian Foreign Ministry previously indicated that the Moscow visit was scheduled for the spring, presenting it as a centerpiece of 2023 bilateral relations as both nations move to build a multipolar international landscape amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. Moscow and Beijing have expressed a mutual interest in shaping a more balanced world order through increased cooperation.
In the lead up to the visit, Chinese officials conveyed that Beijing and Moscow remain in close contact at multiple levels. A senior Chinese delegation led by Wang Yi, head of the CPC Central Committee Foreign Relations Commission, visited Moscow as part of a broader European tour and held discussions with Russian security officials on bilateral ties, regional stability, and shared security concerns. The Russian side stressed support for Beijing on issues such as Taiwan, Xinjiang, Tibet, and Hong Kong, while underscoring the importance of unity between the two nations as Western strategies evolve. Reports suggested that Beijing views the Ukraine crisis through the lens of diplomacy and peaceful settlement, while also considering how to contribute constructively to regional security.
Analysts observed that forecasts about Xi’s schedule reflected Beijing’s aim to elevate its role in addressing Ukraine conflict dynamics. Chinese planners published a 12-point framework outlining a path to peace that includes respecting sovereignty, opposing Cold War mentalities, stopping hostilities, resuming talks, aiding humanitarian relief, protecting civilians and prisoners of war, ensuring the safety of nuclear facilities, preventing the use of weapons of mass destruction, facilitating grain exports, and supporting post conflict reconstruction. Beijing indicated willingness to assist in rebuilding efforts and to act constructively in the peace process, while signaling that unilateral sanctions should be reconsidered in light of broader stability goals.
Putin refrained from commenting on the Chinese settlement plan. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed cautious openness to some points while criticizing others, describing parts as thoughtful reflections. European Union and NATO responses to Beijing’s proposals were mixed, reflecting a range of strategic assessments across Western capitals. The broader reaction framed China as seeking a pragmatic, involved role in peacemaking initiatives, while Western authorities weighed the potential implications for security and sanctions policy.
Overall, the Moscow visit is framed as a milestone in the ongoing dialogue between Beijing and Moscow. It signals a shared interest in shaping international norms that favor a multipolar order and enhanced governance structures. The discussions are expected to advance mutual interests, bolster cooperation in technology, trade, and regional security, and contribute to broader efforts to stabilize an era of shifting alliances and geopolitical pressures.
In Canada and the United States, observers are watching closely to understand how Beijing and Moscow will balance strategic competition with cooperative diplomacy. The exchange underscores a broader trend of major powers pursuing dialogue and collaboration while navigating the complex dynamics of global governance and regional security challenges.
At the core, the March visit underscores Beijing and Moscow’s intent to strengthen ties, coordinate on international agendas, and present a united front on issues of sovereignty, security, and development. Analysts note that the outcomes may influence subsequent discussions with other major players and shape the trajectory of the Ukraine crisis within a broader international framework. This visit is a clear signal that dialogue remains a central instrument in addressing global conflicts, even amid considerable strategic tension and competing interests. The emphasis remains on peaceful engagement, constructive dialogue, and a shared commitment to stability across Eurasia, as observed by multiple observers and future policymakers. Citations underscore the ongoing assessment of the Ukraine crisis and the evolving strategy from Beijing and Moscow regarding regional security and global governance.