BEIJING: Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to hold talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing on Wednesday, according to an announcement from the Kremlin. This meeting comes as Putin seeks increased political and trade support from China, especially in the wake of Russia’s military offensive in Ukraine.
The talks are scheduled to take place on the sidelines of a forum commemorating a decade of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a significant infrastructure development and investment program. The Kremlin, in a statement on Monday, indicated that the discussions would focus on both international and regional issues, although specific details were not provided.
Putin’s First Meeting with Major Global Power
This visit marks Putin’s first meeting with a major global power since the conflict in Ukraine began in February of the previous year. It underscores the strategic partnership between Russia and China at a time when Moscow is seeking allies amid diplomatic challenges.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov arrived in Beijing ahead of Putin’s visit, underlining the importance of the discussions. The meeting occurs in a tense global environment, with heightened tensions observed due to the ongoing Israel-Gaza war.
