Insight on Vladimir Putin’s China visit

Article content

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to China highlights the growing partnership between the two countries as they oppose the U.S.-led democratic order. China has offered strong diplomatic support to Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine and has become a major market for Russian oil and gas. The relationship has also seen Russia rely on China for high-tech imports to support its military operations.

Putin and Xi have fostered a “strategic partnership” with over 40 meetings, enhancing their personal ties to tackle Western tensions. China and Russia have conducted joint military exercises and China has become a vital energy customer for Russia, while Russia has shared military technology with China.

Both leaders view authoritarian regimes favorably in the face of Western criticism. China has refrained from providing arms to Russia in Ukraine but has backed Moscow diplomatically. The U.S. highlights China’s role in supplying technology for Russia’s military advancements.

China and Russia’s military cooperation has included joint exercises and technology sharing, with Russia providing defense capabilities to China. China has taken a neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict but has avoided condemning Russia’s actions, emphasizing the need for a Russia-Ukraine peace dialogue.