In brief
In a recent video call, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged to enhance bilateral ties, indicating a growing partnership despite external pressures and recent sanctions.
The duo, characterized by mutual respect, engaged in discussions covering regional conflicts and economic collaboration, as they responded to shifting dynamics from the U.S. leadership.The article text:Just hours after Donald Trump was inaugurated as President of the United States, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a significant video call. The approximately one-and-a-half-hour conversation is being characterized as a reaffirmation of their commitment to elevate bilateral relations to new "greater heights."During the call, Putin referred to Xi as his "dear friend" and expressed that the foundation of their partnership rests on principles of friendship, mutual trust, and support amidst increasing external challenges. Xi echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of "deepening strategic coordination, firming up mutual support, and safeguarding our legitimate interests."This meeting occurs against a backdrop of escalating tensions, particularly as Trump threatened to impose tariffs on China, labeling it an "abuser" and warning Russia of "big trouble" if it fails to negotiate an end to its military actions in Ukraine. Despite this, Putin made it clear that any peace settlement involving Ukraine must consider "Russian interests," as conveyed by Yuri Ushakov, a foreign affairs adviser.Supporting claims of cooperation, trade between China and Russia surged to a record $240 billion in 2023, a 64% increase since 2021, prior to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ushakov further stated that both leaders expressed readiness to constructively engage with the U.S. if the Trump administration demonstrates genuine interest. However, he tactfully clarified that the call was "not connected with Trump's inauguration in any way."The conversation between Xi and Putin also encompassed discussions on international situations concerning the Middle East, South Korea, and Taiwan. In light of mounting global uncertainties, Xi emphasized his willingness to collaborate with Putin to address these issues.Meanwhile, last week, Xi had a phone conversation with Trump that the latter described as a "very good" dialogue, addressing key topics such as trade, fentanyl, and social media platform TikTok. Although Putin has yet to converse directly with Trump, he did offer his congratulations on state television shortly before the inauguration, marking a noteworthy moment in international relations.
