Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in China on Thursday for a two-day visit, seeking support amid the ongoing war with Ukraine. This visit is significant as Russia looks to strengthen its ties with China during these turbulent times. Putin is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss their strategic alliance.
Putin's trip to China marks his first foreign visit since his re-election in March. Interestingly, this is his second visit to China in the past six months. With severe economic sanctions imposed by Western countries in response to Russia's military actions in Ukraine, Russia has become increasingly dependent on China.
Upon his arrival, Putin received a grand welcome in China. Chinese officials greeted him with an honor guard at the airport, and the scenes were broadcasted on Russian TV. Chinese media outlet 'Xinhua' also covered Putin's arrival extensively.
Since the imposition of economic sanctions by European countries, Russia has significantly increased its trade and business dealings with China. According to Chinese customs statistics, trade between China and Russia has surged since the start of the Ukraine war. In 2023 alone, bilateral trade reached a staggering $240 billion. Both countries hope that Putin's visit will further strengthen their economic and strategic partnership.
