Beijing: In a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Beijing on Wednesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized that the “stability and certainty” of China-Russia relations feel particularly “precious” against a backdrop of global flux and disorder.
Xi pointed to the enduring “strong vitality and exemplary significance” of their friendship treaty, which shines brighter amid such conditions, according to state broadcaster CCTV. He stressed the need for intensified strategic alignment to shield both countries’ core interests, bolster Global South solidarity, and embody the duties of major powers and UN Security Council permanent members.
Pushing Global Cooperation And UN Renewal
“Firmly uphold and practice multilateralism, work together to revitalize the authority and vitality of the United Nations,” Xi stated, as quoted by CCTV. “Promote the development of the international order in a more just and reasonable direction.”
Though Xi offered no specifics on the international “chaos and changes,” his remarks coincided with lingering doubts about the Iran war’s timeline, AP reported. US President Donald Trump, in Tuesday clips from a Fox Business Network interview, asserted the war was “close to over” — a claim echoing his post-invasion declarations of US triumph, even as battlefield developments proved far more nuanced.
Deepening Ties Amid Geopolitical Shifts
The China-Russia bond has grown firmer in recent years, accelerating after Russia’s early 2022 Ukraine invasion. Trump’s distinctive handling of the Ukraine conflict has introduced variables, yet the core relationship remains unshaken.
Xi welcomed Putin as an “old friend” during his September China visit, with Putin responding in kind by calling Xi “dear friend.”
On Wednesday, Xi directed the foreign ministries to execute the agreements forged with Putin, advocating stronger strategic dialogue, tighter diplomatic synergy, and elevation of their comprehensive strategic partnership to “stand higher, walk more steadily and go further.”
Lavrov Highlights Resilience And Shared Goals
Lavrov, who arrived Tuesday for a two-day trip at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, told CCTV that Russian-Chinese relations show “high resilience” in a challenging global setting. He noted positive strides in trade and investment, plus robust teamwork at the U.N. and other multilateral forums.
Russia stands ready to join China in defending international fairness and justice, advancing their partnership, and contributing more to world peace, Lavrov said.
