China and Russia Strengthen Ties Amid Western Pressure
China is hosting Russian president Vladimir Putin in a significant state visit as Western pressure mounts on China to cut ties with Russia amidst the war in Ukraine. The visit marks Putin’s first trip abroad since his recent term began. The leaders are expected to discuss bolstering their strategic partnership to counter Western sanctions, as their bilateral trade hit a record $240bn last year.
Experts believe the visit is a symbolic show of unity against Western pressure, with Putin seeking support from China amidst global isolation. While the US has sanctioned Chinese firms for aiding Russia, China maintains neutrality in the conflict and insists on normal trade relations with Russia.
As Putin seeks support in Ukraine, China is looking to Russia to counterbalance US pressure. The alliance between these two powers poses challenges for the West, calling for a stronger stance against their combined influence in global affairs.
Despite the escalating tensions, the Putin-Xi meeting signifies a deepening of their strategic coordination, with implications for the geopolitical landscape in the years ahead.