Kathrine Frich
With Western sanctions hitting Russia’s economy hard, China has stepped in as a vital economic partner.
With Western sanctions hitting Russia’s economy hard, China has stepped in as a vital economic partner.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Moscow for a four-day state visit, his 11th trip to Russia, marking a significant moment in China-Russia relations.
As both nations face mounting tensions with the West, particularly the United States, this summit serves as a strategic display of unity, economic alignment, and shared geopolitical vision.
Xi’s 11th Visit shows Deepening Ties
Xi Jinping’s repeat visits to Moscow show the importance of Russia in China’s foreign policy.
This trip, described by the Russian Foreign Ministry as “one of the central events in Russian-Chinese relations this year,” is rich with symbolism and practical outcomes.
Economic Lifeline: China Keeps Russia Afloat
With Western sanctions hitting Russia’s economy hard, China has stepped in as a vital economic partner.
It now buys more oil and gas from Russia than any other nation, giving Putin a financial cushion as the war in Ukraine continues to strain his economy.
A Trade War with the US, But Strategic Calm with Russia
Xi arrives in Moscow amid an escalating trade conflict with the United States. His visit sends a clear signal:
Beijing sees Moscow as a dependable ally, especially as both countries promote a multipolar world order challenging American hegemony.
“Boundless Partnership” Reaffirmed
Xi and Putin are expected to sign new agreements reinforcing the 2022 “no limits” strategic partnership.
The two nations continue to back each other on key geopolitical issues and position themselves as defenders of the post-WWII international order, against what they call U.S. unilateralism.
Military Parade: Symbolism in Red Square
On May 9, Xi will join other world leaders in Red Square to observe a massive military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II.
Notably, Chinese troops will also participate, underscoring military cooperation and historic solidarity.
Talks on Gas Pipelines and Energy Security
Among the visit’s core agenda items is energy cooperation, including discussions on the long-delayed Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, a project that would significantly boost gas exports from Russia to China.
Putin views this as key to shifting energy exports away from Europe.
A Response to US Strategy: “Reverse Nixon” Rejected
Analysts say the visit rebukes any U.S. attempt to weaken the China-Russia alliance, a strategy some call the “reverse Nixon”, trying to split Moscow and Beijing, as Washington once did in the 1970s.
This summit is designed to prove that won’t happen.
Diplomatic Messaging: A Multipolar Vision
In a Russian media op-ed, Xi emphasized that both countries must defend the international order and prevent disruptions in their “mutual trust.”
It’s a thinly veiled reference to Western countries, particularly the United States, which both see as global destabilizers.
Ukraine Conflict: A Delicate Balance
While Xi has publicly called for peace in Ukraine, he continues to walk a diplomatic tightrope.
He’s attending the parade despite calls from Ukraine for countries to boycott the event.
Beijing maintains its “neutrality,” but its actions tell a more complex story.
More to Come: Putin Will Visit China Next
This week’s visit is not a one-off. Putin is already scheduled to travel to China in late August or early September.
The goal: deepen bilateral cooperation further, possibly finalizing energy deals and preparing a united front for upcoming international summits.
