BEIJING: After sealing pledges of a “new era” of strategic partnership with China’s Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday is set to highlight the growing importance of trade near the Russian border in China’s northeast.
Putin concludes his high-profile visit to China in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, strengthening bilateral ties through trade and cultural exchanges. During his visit, he participates in a Russian-China Expo and an interregional cooperation forum.
Amid political isolation and Western sanctions due to the invasion of Ukraine, Putin seeks support from China for Russia’s economy.
During a state visit, Putin and Xi signed a joint statement, highlighting a “new era” in their relationship. They addressed various security and economic issues, aligning against US interests.
“The China-Russia relationship today is hard-earned, and the two sides need to cherish and nurture it,” Xi told Putin. “China is willing to… jointly achieve the development and rejuvenation of our respective countries, and work together to uphold fairness and justice in the world.”
The joint statement fleshes out the “no limits” partnership the two declared in February 2022, days before Putin sent tens of thousands of troops into neighbouring Ukraine, launching the deadliest land war in Europe since World War Two.
Putin Trade Push initiative aligns with both Russia and China’s broader geopolitical and economic objectives.
Moreover, by fostering stronger trade links, the two nations seek to diversify their economic partnerships and reduce dependence on Western markets. Furthermore, Putin’s emphasis on boosting Moscow-Beijing trade in China’s northeast reflects a broader geopolitical strategy.
Ultimately, Putin Trade Push initiative signals a new chapter in Russia-China relations, marked by closer economic integration and shared prosperity.
read more
image source
