Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his warm sentiments towards Chinese President Xi Jinping, referring to him as an “old friend”. Putin emphasized the personal aspect of their relationship, countering claims suggesting the Ukraine conflict has driven Russia to strengthen ties with China. This statement followed Putin’s recent trip to Beijing with cabinet members and business leaders, marking his 25th visit to the country. Putin and Xi, who have met over 40 times since Xi became China’s leader in 2013, are known for their public displays of camaraderie, such as mutual embraces, leading to their relationship being dubbed a “bromance”.
During the 29th annual St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin stated, “I do have a good relationship with President Xi Jinping. He calls me ‘old friend,’ and I also call him that.” He added, “This is no exaggeration or figure of speech. We have developed a trusting relationship,” per a translation by APT News. Putin’s comments came in response to a question by Fu Hua, president and party secretary of China’s Xinhua News Agency, about the close cooperation between Beijing and Moscow.
Russia’s Dependence on China
The alliance between Russia and China appears strategic, as both countries jointly advocate for a multipolar world order against U.S.-led global dominance. China has played a crucial role in sustaining Russia’s economy since Putin’s incursion into Ukraine. Last year, bilateral trade surged to approximately $228 billion, marking an increase of over 50 percent from prewar figures. China’s acquisition of discounted Russian gas has helped mitigate the impact of Western sanctions and Europe’s reduction of Russian energy imports. Furthermore, the continued export of Chinese electronics and components to Russia supports its military-industrial infrastructure, according to the United States and European allies.
A Relationship Years in the Making
Putin denied claims that the robust Beijing-Moscow relationship emerged recently. He argued that the relationship’s foundations were established in 2001 with the signing of the Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation with then-Chinese leader Jiang Zemin. During Putin’s visit, Xi Jinping lauded a “new stage of greater achievements” in bilateral relations, as the leaders issued a 10,000-word joint statement and signed numerous agreements.
However, conspicuously missing was progress on the long-delayed 1,616-mile Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, which could double Russia’s pipeline gas exports to China. Negotiations are stalled due to pricing issues, and China is pursuing alternative LNG sources in response to disruptions in global energy markets caused by geopolitical tensions.
China has become the largest importer of Russian oil and gas, compensating for the loss of European markets. Putin’s visit coincided with efforts to ease tensions between China and the United States, following President Donald Trump’s state visit. Trump praised Xi as a “great leader” and extended an invitation for a visit to Washington in September.
Newsweek reached out to China’s Foreign Ministry for comments. Responses are awaited.