BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday warmly welcomed Russian leader Vladimir Putin to Beijing, marking the start of a significant multilateral summit attended by representatives from 130 countries. The summit focuses on China’s ambitious trade and infrastructure initiative, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The meeting between Xi and Putin took place amid the escalating tensions caused by the Israel-Palestine conflict. Western nations, including the United States, have stood by Israel. The United States has called on China to utilize its influence to de-escalate the conflict, seeking a peaceful resolution to the crisis that has forced over a million people in the blockaded Gaza Strip to flee relentless Israeli bombardment.
China is sending its Middle East envoy, Zhai Jun, to the volatile region this week. Zhai is expected to advocate for a ceasefire and peace talks.
President Vladimir Putin arrives at the Third #BeltandRoad Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing, takes part in the welcome & family photo ceremonies.
🇷🇺🇨🇳 🤝 President Xi Jinping greeted President Vladimir Putin on his arrival, the two Leaders had a brief conversation. pic.twitter.com/fQGk7n0kTr
— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) October 17, 2023
Putin’s Visit Aims to Strengthen Russia-China Ties
Putin’s visit to Beijing aims to strengthen the enduring bond between Russia and China. China stands as Russia’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching a record $190 billion last year, according to Beijing customs data. However, experts note that Moscow is increasingly the junior partner in this relationship.
During Xi’s state visit to Moscow in March, Putin highlighted the “truly unlimited possibilities” offered by the partnership between their countries.
While the Belt and Road Initiative forum provides an opportunity for Xi and Putin to showcase their alliance, experts do not anticipate the announcement of major new agreements during the summit.
