Russian President Putin to meet Chinese leaders, emphasizing China’s robust support for Moscow amid the Ukraine conflict.
This visit underscores the informal alliance that has formed between the two countries against the United States and other democratic nations.
Putin’s Strategic Visit to China
China has strategically balanced its ties with Israel while maintaining its economic relations with Iran and Syria, which are strongly supported by Russia. Putin’s visit not only showcases solidarity with Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative but also emphasizes the strengthening of economic and financial ties between Moscow and Beijing.
The Belt and Road Initiative, a signature policy of Xi Jinping, aims to build infrastructure and expand China’s overseas influence. However, it has also come under scrutiny for burdening countries with heavy debt after signing contracts with Chinese companies for public works projects they couldn’t otherwise afford.
During the visit, discussions will encompass Belt and Road-related projects, seeking to align efforts with an economic alliance of ex-Soviet Union nations primarily located in Central Asia, focusing on common development goals.
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Pursuit of Strategic Autonomy and Mutual Benefit
Putin emphasized the growth in financial relations and the incentives for payments in national currencies between Russia and China, pointing out the significant volume of trade and potential in high-tech areas and the energy sector.
While a full-fledged military alliance between Russia and China is unlikely, there will be closer military cooperation and greater interoperability.
Both countries prioritize strategic autonomy and self-sufficiency in terms of security, reiterating their mutual benefit from partnering without requiring a formal security guarantee from each other.
The historical shift from Cold War rivals to economic, military, and diplomatic partners showcases the evolving dynamics between China and Russia.
Despite their differences, both nations align on numerous fronts, from economic cooperation to joint military efforts, impacting global dynamics, especially in regions like the Arctic and in missile defense strategies that complicate U.S. nuclear planning and coordination with its allies in Asia and Europe.
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