Beijing is increasingly seen as the key to international stability and economic opportunities, a situation in which Washington and Moscow meet. President of China Xi Jinping’s recent foreign policy interactions as US and Russian leaders highlight China’s rising strategic role – acting as a key player in global affairs, from the Ukraine crisis to the volatile situation with Iran.
Xi’s relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin has become one of the most interesting geopolitical dynamics of the modern era, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine and the wider realignment of world power.
Putin’s comments earlier this month that the war in Ukraine could be “come last” signaled a dramatic shift in rhetoric after years of bitter conflict and escalating geopolitical tensions.
The statement may have been influenced by Beijing’s quiet behind-the-scenes diplomacy, which has repeatedly argued for a ceasefire and talks. More specifically, Putin’s comments came earlier this week summit with Xiheld in Beijing, the main result of which was their joint declaration on the establishment of a multilateral world and a “new type” of international relations.
In this context, their declaration included criticism aimed at the United States for attacks against Venezuela and Iran, as well as its proposal “Golden Palace” jointly called on countries to stop blocking international trade and threatening supply chains in indirect reference to blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and also share concerns about Japan’s new weaponwhich they say is “a serious threat” to regional peace and stability.
The meeting also focused on the economic prosperity of the relationship. Russia and China signed many bilateral documents covering energy, transport, trade and technology. These reflect the increasing cooperation between the two economic nations as Russia continues to face unprecedented sanctions and sanctions from the West. Putin, however, emphasized that bilateral trade has become safer because of the shift towards a settlement in their national currencies.
