Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin used a video call on Wednesday to reaffirm and expand their strategic partnership as the war in Ukraine approaches its fourth anniversary.
The call reflected continuity in a relationship that has deepened since Moscow launched its invasion in February 2022 and as Russia faces sustained Western sanctions.
Both leaders emphasized stability, long-term planning and shared positions on global affairs during the hour-and-a-half discussion, according to state media and official briefings.
Putin described ties between Moscow and Beijing as a stabilizing force amid global turbulence and highlighted their energy cooperation as strategic and mutually beneficial.
Xi called for the two countries to work out a “grand plan” for bilateral relations and urged closer high-level exchanges and practical cooperation across sectors.
Chinese state media reported that Xi said the relationship was advancing in the right direction and represented a historic opportunity.
The leaders agreed to further develop trade, including energy ties, and Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov said their positions coincided on most international issues.
Putin accepted an invitation to visit China in the first half of the year and is also expected to attend a major Asia-Pacific summit later this year.
Both sides referenced recent meetings between senior diplomats, including talks in Beijing involving Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu and China’s top diplomat Wang Yi.
Russia reiterated support for Beijing’s position on Taiwan, while China pledged deeper strategic coordination with Moscow.
The call took place as a key U.S.-Russian nuclear arms reduction treaty is set to expire and as Washington has yet to respond to Moscow’s proposal for a one-year extension.
Putin said Russia would act responsibly while remaining open to negotiations to ensure strategic stability.
Xi and Putin also exchanged views on relations with the United States, with Ushakov saying their assessments largely aligned.
The discussion followed increased diplomatic engagement between China and Western countries, including visits by leaders from Britain and Canada and an expected trip by Germany’s chancellor.
Ukraine and the European Union have accused Beijing of providing military assistance to Russia, allegations China denies.
The leaders also discussed tensions involving Iran and reiterated support for maintaining cooperation with Venezuela and Cuba.
The call underscored a widening diplomatic alignment that continues to shape global power dynamics as the conflict in Ukraine grinds on.