Russian PM Mikhail Mishustin (left) and Chinese Premier Li Qiang signed several agreements involving trade, agriculture, and sport, among others. PHOTO: REUTERS
By Smartencyclopedia Newsroom *
During a visit to Beijing, Russia’s Prime Minister, Mikhail Mishustin, signed a series of agreements with China, highlighting the exceptional level of bilateral ties between the two nations. Despite criticism from the West regarding their relationship in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine, Mishustin expressed the strength of the Russo-Chinese alliance.
Mishustin’s visit holds significant importance as he is the highest-ranking Russian official to travel to Beijing since the deployment of Russian troops to Ukraine in February 2022. He engaged in discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and was scheduled to meet with President Xi Jinping as well.
This visit takes place amidst a backdrop of strong reactions from both Russia and China to the declarations made by the Group of Seven (G7) nations over the weekend. The G7’s statements specifically addressed various issues, including Ukraine, and drew strong criticism from both countries.
As the war in Ukraine continues into its second year and Russia faces mounting pressure from Western sanctions, Moscow is increasingly relying on Beijing for support, while China’s dependence on Russia remains relatively limited. This dynamic is driven by China’s significant demand for Russian oil and gas.
During a meeting in Beijing, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin conveyed that the relationship between Russia and China is currently at an unprecedented level. He emphasized the mutual respect for each other’s interests and the shared determination to address challenges, particularly in light of the heightened turbulence in the international arena and the collective pressure exerted by Western powers.
The statement by Mishustin reflects Russia’s reliance on China as a crucial partner, both economically and politically, in the face of Western criticism and sanctions. China, on the other hand, maintains a more cautious approach in its relationship with Russia, leveraging its energy demands while being mindful of potential geopolitical implications.
Projections indicate that Russia’s energy exports to China are expected to increase by 40% this year. Additionally, discussions are underway between the two countries regarding the supply of technological equipment to Russia, as reported by the Interfax news agency.
The deepening of ties with China is considered a strategic course for Moscow, according to Nikolai Patrushev, the Secretary of Russia’s Security Council. Patrushev recently held talks with Chen Wenqing, a member of the Chinese Communist Party’s Politburo responsible for overseeing police, legal affairs, and intelligence.
While Beijing has refrained from openly denouncing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, President Xi Jinping has put forth a 12-point peace plan since February. This plan has been met with skepticism from the West but cautiously welcomed by Kyiv.
In a significant development, China’s special representative for Eurasian affairs, Li Hui, recently visited Ukraine and met with President Volodymyr Zelensky. This visit marked the beginning of Li Hui’s European tour, which China positioned as an effort to promote peace talks and a political resolution to the crisis. It is reported that Li Hui is scheduled to visit Russia as well, according to Russian news agency TASS.
Source: With Agencies