Chinese leader Xi Jinping held a meeting with top Russian diplomat Sergey Lavrov in Beijing on Tuesday, as reported by state media. This meeting underscores the growing importance that China places on its strong relationship with Moscow.
Lavrov's two-day visit to the Chinese capital follows Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent suggestion of considering China for his first overseas trip after his re-election victory. The details of the meeting have not been immediately disclosed by state media.
This meeting between Lavrov and Xi marks their first encounter in six years, a significant event as heads of state do not typically meet with visiting ministers. The last meeting between the two in 2018 preceded a state visit by Putin to China, highlighting the deepening economic, trade, and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
China has maintained a stance of neutrality in the conflict in Ukraine but has become a crucial economic partner for Russia. Both countries view each other as allies against perceived containment efforts from the West.
During Lavrov's visit, he also met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Wang emphasized the historic nature of the countries' relationship and expressed a shared opposition to a Cold War mentality, particularly in relation to the United States.
The discussions between Lavrov and Wang touched on the war in Ukraine, with both sides agreeing that international meetings on the conflict that exclude Moscow's interests are ineffective. China expressed support for an international peace conference that includes equal participation from all parties and fair discussion of peace plans.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, questions persist about how to achieve a resolution. China has engaged in dialogue with Switzerland regarding an upcoming international peace conference, emphasizing the importance of recognition by both Ukraine and Russia.
The meeting between Xi Jinping and Sergey Lavrov signals a deepening of ties between China and Russia, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to mutual cooperation and opposition to divisive Cold War mentalities.
