Russian President Vladimir Putin’s four-day state visit to China, his longest foreign trip since 2012, has become a showcase of Moscow’s diplomatic resilience and outreach amid ongoing tensions with the West. During his time in Beijing, Putin has met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, among others. The series of meetings underscores Russia’s efforts to bolster existing partnerships, strengthen alternative economic and security networks, and counter the perception of international isolation fueled by Western narratives.

The highlight of the visit was the series of high-level talks between Putin and Xi Jinping. The Russian leader referred to Xi as his “dear friend,” underscoring the deep personal rapport that has increasingly shaped the Moscow-Beijing relationship. Both sides reaffirmed that their partnership is at an “unprecedentedly high level” and reiterated their pledge to expand cooperation “without limits.”

Areas of focus include joint work in security, technology, finance, and scientific research. Russia continues to rely heavily on China as its largest trading partner, especially as sanctions from the United States and the European Union push Moscow to deepen ties with Asian economies.

The trilateral meeting between Russia, China, and Mongolia was particularly notable, marking the first such gathering in three years. It signaled renewed interest in regional cooperation that includes infrastructure, energy, and transit projects spanning the vast Eurasian corridor.

For Beijing, Putin’s presence was equally significant. Hosting the Russian leader at a time when both countries are under pressure from Washington serves to reinforce the narrative of a multipolar world order. Xi’s willingness to........

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