In a significant diplomatic development, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have decided to extend the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation. This agreement, made during talks at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, underscores the two nations’ commitment to bolstering political trust, strategic coordination, and practical cooperation amid a turbulent global landscape, as Putin concluded his two-day state visit to China.
The discussions culminated in a joint statement aimed at enhancing comprehensive strategic coordination and deepening the good-neighborly ties between the two countries, along with the signing of 20 cooperation agreements spanning various sectors such as the economy, trade, education, and science and technology. Both leaders also issued a statement advocating for a multipolar world and new international relations, emphasizing their shared vision of a more equitable global order.
Marking the 30th anniversary of the China-Russia strategic partnership, Xi highlighted that this relationship has reached unprecedented levels, setting a benchmark for major-country relations. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the treaty, Xi noted the ongoing adherence to its principles of non-alliance, non-confrontation, and mutual respect, which both countries have upheld while promoting international fairness and justice. As permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, Xi urged China and Russia to resist unilateralism and uphold the UN’s authority.
Putin, lauding the unparalleled state of Russia-China relations, expressed confidence in their future trajectory. He emphasized the self-sufficient nature of this partnership, independent of global circumstances, and its potential as a model for international relations. Both nations aim to deepen their cooperation within international frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, addressing global and regional challenges collaboratively.
Beyond political and strategic discussions, the two leaders explored the potential for advancing bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, energy, transportation, and technological innovation. They also agreed to extend visa-free policies for each other’s citizens until the end of 2027, facilitating further people-to-people exchanges. Addressing broader global issues, Xi underscored the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities in the Middle East to stabilize energy supplies and international trade. The diplomatic engagements concluded with a welcoming banquet for Putin in Beijing’s Golden Hall, symbolizing the enduring camaraderie between the two nations.