Category: Russia

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov visits China

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov paid a visit to China, April 14-15, at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Lavrov on April 15 and urged closer and stronger strategic coordination between China and Russia to firmly defend their legitimate interests and safeguard the unity of Global South countries.

Xi stressed that China and Russia should maintain strategic resolve, trust and support each other, and pursue common development. It is necessary for the two sides to fully leverage the advantages of proximity and complementarity, deepen cooperation on all fronts, and enhance the resilience of their respective development, he added.

He also urged the two countries to strengthen multilateral cooperation, firmly uphold and practice multilateralism, join hands to revive the authority and vitality of the UN, engage in closer coordination and cooperation within the frameworks of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS countries, and promote the development of the international order in a more just and reasonable direction.

Sergey Lavrov said: “Thanks to the diplomacy pursued by our leaders, you and President Putin, our relations have demonstrated high resilience to the economic and geopolitical shocks that have swept the world, as you have pointed out. Regrettably, these differences are increasingly acquiring a military dimension. In this situation, relations between Russia and China, which are playing a stabilising role in international affairs, are becoming increasingly important for the rest of the world, for the Global Majority, which does not want problems and turbulence but peaceful conditions for sustainable and long-term development.”

Discussions between the Chinese and Russian foreign ministers were held the previous day.

Wang Yi stated that the current international situation is experiencing intense turmoil, with unilateral hegemony inflicting increasing harm, the global governance system facing profound adjustments, and humanity’s cause of peace and development confronting serious challenges. In the face of a complex and volatile external environment, under the personal attention and strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Putin, China-Russia relations remain “unshaken by fleeting clouds”, with cooperation across all fields becoming “stronger through repeated trials”. The two sides coordinate and echo each other on the international stage, sending a clear message to the world that the right path still exists amid headwinds, and there remains steadfast responsibility amid upheaval. 

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the China-Russia strategic partnership of coordination and the 25th anniversary of the signing of the China-Russia Treaty of Good-neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation. It is also the first year of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan period. China and Russia should seize this historical opportunity, follow the trend of the times, fully implement the important consensus reached by the heads of state of the two countries, and elevate the China-Russia strategic partnership of coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields to a higher level. The two sides should strengthen cooperation within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, take the 25th anniversary of the founding of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as an opportunity to implement the consensus of the Tianjin Summit through China-Russia cooperation, and support Kyrgyzstan in hosting a successful summit this year. The two sides should jointly maintain the momentum of unity among BRICS countries and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South. The two sides should continue to maintain strategic coordination on major international and regional issues, jointly practice multilateralism and international morality, and jointly advance the process of world multipolarity.

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Xi Jinping holds same day conversations with Presidents Putin and Trump

In an unusual diplomatic coincidence, Chinese President Xi Jinping held separate conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump on February 4.

Xi Jinping first met with President Putin by videoconference.

The readout published by the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that President Xi extended sincere Spring Festival greetings to President Putin and the Russian people, and noted that today is the Beginning of Spring, one of the solar terms in the Chinese lunar calendar. It means the return of spring and signals a new start. He added that that over the past year, we met twice and steered China-Russia relations into a new stage of development. The two countries solemnly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, demonstrating a firm resolve to defend the victorious outcomes of WWII and international fairness and justice. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Tianjin Summit and the 24th meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member States were successfully held in China and Russia respectively. The two sides have increased multilateral coordination and stayed committed to building a more just and equitable global governance system.

President Xi noted that the first few weeks of the year have witnessed increasing turbulence around the world. As responsible major countries and permanent members of the UN Security Council, China and Russia are duty-bound to pool global efforts to firmly uphold fairness and justice, firmly defend the victorious outcomes of WWII, firmly safeguard the UN-centred international system and the basic norms of international law, and jointly maintain global strategic stability.

President Putin said that over the past year, Russia and China jointly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of WWII, firmly safeguarded world peace secured with great sacrifice by the people of both countries and defended historical truth. Cooperation between the two countries in areas such as trade, energy, science and technology, and agriculture has deepened and achieved tangible results. People-to-people exchanges have grown closer, the China-Russia Years of Culture concluded successfully, and mutual visa exemption has facilitated travel between the two peoples. Looking ahead to the new year, Russia has full confidence in the bilateral relationship.

For its part, the website of the President of Russia released the text of the opening remarks of both leaders.

President Putin said: “I would like to personally wish Happy New Year 2026 to you and through you to the entire friendly Chinese nation. Please also accept my greetings on the Spring Festival, which will signal the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse. As far as we know, this horse stands out by its strength, energy and determination to move ahead. This is also what makes the relations between our two countries so special.”

He added: “I believe that we properly celebrated the 80th anniversary of victory in World War II in Moscow in May and in Beijing in September. The fact that we did this together has demonstrated to the world our solidarity and Russia and China’s readiness to uphold historical truth and carefully preserve the memory of the heroism of our countries’ people, who sacrificed tens of millions of lives to restore peace on the planet.”

Xi Jinping said, among other things: “I would like to thank you for sending Comrade (Sergei) Shoigu to Beijing recently for consultations with Comrade Wang Yi on international and regional issues in preparation for our meeting. He has briefed me on the content of their discussions.” [See below.]

The Russian Presidency also released a commentary on the conversation by Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov.

He also noted that: “Consultations were held on February 1 in Beijing between Secretary of the Russian Security Council Sergei Shoigu and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Minister of Foreign Affairs of China Wang Yi. The heads of state discussed the information received following these consultations,” and added:

“I would like to emphasise that Xi Jinping was the principal guest in Moscow at the Victory Day Parade on May 9, while Vladimir Putin was the principal guest at the commemorative events in Beijing on September 3. Both Russia and China intend to continue upholding historical truth and preserving the memory of the heroism of our fathers and grandfathers in those harsh years.”

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China and Russia conduct strategic security consultation focused on Japan and Ukraine

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is also a Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, on December 2, co-chaired the 20th round of China-Russia strategic security consultation with Secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council Sergei Shoigu in Moscow.

The two sides conducted comprehensive and in-depth communication on major issues concerning the strategic security interests of both countries, reached new common understandings and enhanced strategic mutual trust. Both sides agreed to fully implement the important common understandings reached by the two heads of state in the field of strategic security, and advance bilateral strategic coordination toward higher quality.

Wang Yi stated that China-Russia relations have achieved high-level development this year. The two sides have carried out a series of important high-level exchanges, centred around the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. In particular, President Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin met twice this year, once in Moscow and once in Beijing, providing guidance for the steady development of China-Russia relations amid a complex and changing environment and ensuring that the bilateral relationship continues to move forward at its own pace in an uncertain world.

Sergei Shoigu said that in the face of the complex changes in current international geopolitics and increasing challenges in global security, it is necessary for Russia and China, as comprehensive strategic partners of coordination, to strengthen strategic alignment. The two heads of state met twice this year, charting the course for and driving the development of Russia-China relations. Russia-China strategic coordination is at an unprecedented high level, which is in line with the national interests of both countries and benefits regional and global peace. Russia and China develop bilateral relations based on mutual respect, free from external interference.

The two sides conducted strategic alignment on issues related to Japan, reaching a high degree of consensus. They agreed to resolutely safeguard the outcomes of the victory of World War II won at the cost of lives and blood, firmly oppose any erroneous words and deeds that attempt to whitewash the history of colonial aggression, and resolutely counter any attempts to revive fascism or Japanese militarism. Both sides stressed that China and Russia, as major countries and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, will shoulder their shared responsibility to safeguard world peace and security, and uphold historical truth and international justice.

They also had an in-depth exchange of views on the Ukraine crisis. Sergei Shoigu explained Russia’s position and considerations and expressed appreciation for China’s efforts in support of peace. He said Russia has the full capability and strong determination to achieve its strategic objectives and eliminate the root causes of the crisis. Wang Yi elaborated on China’s consistent stance, stating that the Chinese side supports all efforts conducive to achieving peace, supports reaching a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement, and will continue to maintain strategic communication with the Russian side on this matter.

Wang Yi also met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the same day.

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Li Qiang attends SCO heads of government meeting in Moscow

From November 17-24, Chinese Premier Li Qiang visited Russia to attend the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO); Zambia to pay an official visit; and South Africa to attend the 20th G20 Summit.

On November 17, Li Qiang met with his Russian counterpart Mikhail Mishustin and said that China stands ready to deepen cooperation with Russia in investment, energy, agriculture and other fields, adding that the Chinese market welcomes more high-quality agricultural and food products from Russia.

Li said that not too long ago he and Mishustin held in Hangzhou, the capital of east China’s Zhejiang Province, the 30th regular meeting of the Chinese and Russian heads of government, which focused on the implementation of the important consensus reached by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

China stands ready to work with Russia to follow the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, further strengthen communication, continuously deepen mutually beneficial cooperation between the two sides, and create more benefits for the two peoples, Li said. He also urged both sides to continue to expand people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and to strengthen cooperation in areas such as culture, education and films.

Noting that the Tianjin Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) held in September achieved a series of fruitful results, Li said China is willing to maintain close coordination and collaboration with Russia to encourage all parties of the SCO to uphold the Shanghai Spirit and materialise the development blueprint outlined by the leaders at an early date.

He urged further advancing pragmatic cooperation to bolster the development momentum of all member states, to continuously improve the institutional building of the SCO, to enhance its influence in international affairs, and to stand in solidarity with the vast number of Global South countries to promote an equitable and orderly multipolar world as well as a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation.

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China, Russia and Mongolia strengthen three-way friendship in Beijing

Chinese President Xi Jinping held important meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa on the morning of September 2. Both men were in China to attend the meetings of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) along with the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the Chinese people’s victory in the war to resist Japanese aggression and the world anti-fascist war.

President Xi Jinping noted that the China-Russia relationship, having stood the test of changes in the world, has become a prime example of relations between two major countries featuring everlasting good-neighbourliness and friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination, and mutual benefit, cooperation and win-win. Staying committed to their abiding aspirations and maintaining resolve, the two sides have produced fruitful outcomes in their cooperation across the board. The Chinese side will work with the Russian side to maintain close high-level exchanges, support each other’s development and rejuvenation, coordinate positions on matters pertaining to each other’s core interests and major concerns in a timely manner, and achieve greater progress in China-Russia relations. The two sides should guide their cooperation through large and especially more flagship projects and promote convergence of interests at a deeper level.

Xi Jinping observed that the Chinese and Russian presidents attending the commemorations of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War held in each other’s countries fully demonstrates the sense of responsibility of major countries as the key victorious nations of World War II and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and speaks to their firm determination to safeguard the fruits of the victory in World War II and uphold a correct historical perspective on the War. Both China and Russia emphasise sovereign equality, international rule of law, and multilateralism. The two sides should continue to step up coordination and cooperation at the UN, the SCO, the BRICS, the G20 and other multilateral platforms, and join hands in building a community with a shared future for humanity.

President Putin noted that guided by President Xi and himself, the bilateral relationship has been highly strategic and reached a historic high. President Xi paid a state visit to Russia and attended the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War last May. President Putin said that he will attend the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression tomorrow. By doing so, the two countries underscore to the world that they helped each other and fought side by side in the World Anti-Fascist War and played critical roles in its victory in both main European and Eastern theatres, and they are firmly committed to jointly upholding the truth of history and safeguarding the fruits of the victory in World War II. The solidarity and cooperation between Russia and China in the World Anti-Fascist War has laid a solid foundation for the development of their relations in the new era.

The Russian President’s website further quoted him as saying: “Our ancestors, fathers and grandfathers paid an enormous price for peace and freedom. We do not forget this – we remember. It is the foundation, the bedrock of our achievements today and in the future.”

In his meeting with Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, President Xi noted that China and Mongolia, as friendly neighbours connected by mountains and rivers, are enjoying ever deepening exchanges and cooperation across various fields, with multiple key projects making positive progress. The two sides should be guided by the vision of building a China-Mongolia community with a shared future, consolidate strategic mutual trust, deepen development integration, and bring the two peoples closer, so as to inject sustained momentum into their comprehensive strategic partnership. He stressed that no matter how the international landscape may evolve, China will remain a trustworthy and reliable partner for Mongolia

President Khurelsukh said that it is a priority of Mongolia’s foreign policy to maintain permanent good-neighbourly friendship and pursue sustainable, mutually beneficial cooperation with China. Mongolia highly commends China’s commitment to the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness in pursuing its neighbourhood diplomacy. The Global Governance Initiative (GGI) proposed by President Xi Jinping advocates for a UN-centred international governance system that ensures equal participation of all developing countries. Mongolia warmly applauds this initiative and is ready to work with China to provide mutual support and pursue close cooperation on the global stage to safeguard the common interests of developing countries.

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Putin: Russia and China are united in our vision of building a just, multipolar world order, with a focus on the nations of the Global Majority

We are pleased to republish below the full text of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s interview with Xinhua News Agency, conducted on the eve of his visit to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Tianjin Summit and the commemorations in Beijing for the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression.

The interview touches on a wide range of important issues, including Russia-China relations, the global balance of power, the significance of the SCO, and the lessons to be learned from the Second World War.

On the issue of the Global Anti-Fascist War, Putin notes:

The peoples of the Soviet Union and China bore the brunt of the fighting and suffered the heaviest losses. It was our citizens who endured the greatest hardships in the struggle against the invaders and played a decisive role in defeating Nazism and militarism. Through those severe trials, the finest traditions of friendship and mutual assistance were forged and strengthened – traditions that today form a solid foundation for Russian–Chinese relations.

I would remind you that even before the full-scale outbreak of the Second World War, in the 1930s, when Japan treacherously launched a war of aggression against China, the Soviet Union extended a helping hand to the Chinese people. Thousands of our career officers served as military advisers, assisting in strengthening the Chinese army and providing guidance in combat operations. Soviet pilots also fought bravely alongside their Chinese brothers-in-arms.

He adds:

The historical record leaves no doubt as to the scale and ferocity of those battles. We remember the great significance of the famous Hundred Regiments Offensive, when Chinese Communist forces liberated a territory with a population of five million from Japanese occupation. We also recall the unparalleled feats of Soviet troops and commanders in their clashes with Japan at Lake Khasan and the Khalkhin Gol River. In the summer of 1939, our legendary commander Georgy Zhukov won his first major victory in the Mongolian steppes, which in effect foreshadowed the later defeat of the Berlin–Tokyo–Rome Axis. In 1945, the Manchurian Strategic Offensive Operation played a decisive role in liberating northeast China, dramatically altering the situation in the Far East and making the capitulation of militarist Japan inevitable.

And, correctly remembering the crucial role played by China in the defeat of fascism and militarism and the birth of the modern international order, he states:

In Russia, we will never forget that China’s heroic resistance was one of the crucial factors that prevented Japan from stabbing the Soviet Union in the back during the darkest months of 1941–1942. This enabled the Red Army to concentrate its efforts on crushing Nazism and liberating Europe. Close cooperation between our two countries was also an important element in forming the anti-Hitler coalition, strengthening China as a great power, and in the constructive discussions that shaped the post-war settlement and helped to reinvigorate the anti-colonial movement.

Putin observes that, in the West, there are ceaseless attempts to rewrite the history of the Second World War, to downplay the role of the Soviet Union and China in the victory over fascism, and to whitewash the crimes of fascism and militarism. “Historical truth is being distorted and suppressed to suit their current political agendas. Japanese militarism is being revived under the pretext of imaginary Russian or Chinese threats, while in Europe, including Germany, steps are being taken towards the re-militarisation of the continent, with little regard for historical parallels.”

Continue reading Putin: Russia and China are united in our vision of building a just, multipolar world order, with a focus on the nations of the Global Majority

Trump makes BRICS great again

As Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump prepare to meet in the current US state and former Russian territory of Alaska on August 15 for talks centred on the conflict in Ukraine, they do so against a wider diplomatic background of engagements among the Global South, with BRICS+ in the lead, and triggered not least by the indiscriminate bullying tactics on the part of Trump.

Faced with the shameless bullying and arbitrary economic punishment beating on the part of the United States, not least in support of Trump’s fascist friend, former President Jair Bolsonaro, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has conducted telephone diplomacy to coordinate positions with his Chinese, Russian and Indian counterparts.

On August 12, President Xi Jinping spoke with President Lula for one hour, at the latter’s request.

Xi Jinping pointed out that China-Brazil relations are at their best in history, with a good start and strong momentum in building the China-Brazil community with a shared future and aligning development strategies. China is ready to work with Brazil to seize opportunities, strengthen coordination, deliver more mutually beneficial cooperation outcomes, set an example of uniting for strength among major Global South countries, and build a more just world and sustainable planet.

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva briefed on Brazil’s current relationship with the United States and Brazil’s principled stance on firmly safeguarding its sovereignty. He appreciated China’s efforts to uphold multilateralism and free trade rules, and its responsible role in international affairs. Brazil is ready to enhance communication and coordination with China within BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms, oppose unilateralism and bullying acts, and safeguard the common interests of all countries.

Xi Jinping said that China supports the Brazilian people in defending national sovereignty and supports Brazil in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests. Countries should unite in unequivocally opposing unilateralism and protectionism. The BRICS mechanism is an important platform for building consensus in the Global South. He congratulated Brazil on successfully hosting the BRICS Summit. Global South countries should join hands to uphold international fairness and justice, safeguard the basic norms governing international relations, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries.

Their conversation was preceded by an August 6 call between Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Brazilian Chief Advisor to the Presidency Celso Luiz Nunes Amorim, again at the latter’s request.

Wang Yi said that China resolutely supports Brazil in defending its state sovereignty and national dignity and opposes groundless interference in Brazil’s internal affairs by external forces. China firmly supports Brazil in protecting its development rights and interests and resisting the bullying practices of arbitrary tariffs. China firmly supports Brazil in strengthening solidarity and cooperation among the Global South through the BRICS mechanism and promoting strength through unity among developing countries. Using tariffs as a weapon to suppress other countries runs counter to the purposes of the United Nations Charter and undermines WTO rules. Such practices will win no support and cannot be sustained. China is ready to work with Brazil to fully implement the important common understandings reached by the two heads of state, deepen bilateral cooperation, enrich the strategic dimension of the China-Brazil community with a shared future, and effectively offset external uncertainties through the stability and complementarity of bilateral cooperation.

Celso Amorim noted that the profound friendship, strong mutual trust, and fruitful pragmatic cooperation between the two countries are truly commendable. Brazil is willing to work with China to fully implement the common understandings reached between the two heads of state and deepen cooperation in various fields such as trade and finance. The United States’ imposition of high tariffs on Brazil has disrupted normal economic and trade relations and interfered in Brazil’s internal affairs, which Brazil firmly opposes. Brazil thanks China for its steadfast support and is willing to work with China to promote the improvement and development of the BRICS mechanism, enhance solidarity and self-strength among the Global South, and uphold international fairness and justice.

What is also noteworthy is that relations between China and India are significantly improving.

On August 13, the financial news service Bloomberg reported that, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is drawing closer to the BRICS countries after US President Donald Trump hit the South Asian nation with a 50% tariff.

“Modi’s latest move is to resume direct flights with China as soon as next month, said people familiar with the negotiations who asked for anonymity to discuss private matters. The deal could be formally announced when Modi is expected to head to China for the first time in seven years and meet leader Xi Jinping at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation held in Tianjin from Aug. 31…

“Modi’s economic calculus was fundamentally altered this month when Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50% as a penalty for its purchases of Russian oil. The US president’s remarks that India’s economy was ‘dead’ and its tariff barriers ‘obnoxious’ further strained relations.”

The report added: “The Adani Group [of billionaire Gautam Adani, currently facing a US court indictment] is exploring a tieup with Chinese EV giant BYD Co. that would allow… Adani’s conglomerate to manufacture batteries in India and extend its push into clean energy, according to people familiar with the matter.”

Moreover, prior to his Alaska visit, Vladimir Putin also had a telephone conversation with Xi Jinping on August 8, at the request of the Russian President.

President Putin briefed Xi Jinping on Russia’s views on the current situation of the Ukraine crisis and the recent contact and communication between Russia and the United States, adding that Russia highly appreciates the constructive role China has been playing in the political settlement of the crisis. He stated that the comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination between Russia and China will not change under any circumstances.

Xi Jinping said that no matter how the situation evolves, China will maintain its consistent position and continue promoting talks for peace. China welcomes contacts between Russia and the US to improve bilateral ties and advance the process of realising a political settlement of the crisis.

Both sides said they will make concerted efforts in preparation for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Tianjin Summit to ensure a successful gathering of friendship, solidarity and fruitful results.

This call was one of a number made by the Russian President to brief and discuss with friendly leaders in the Global South ahead of his meeting with Trump. They include – in the order reported by the Russian President’s website – the leaders of South Africa, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Belarus, India, Brazil, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).

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Chinese and Russian diplomats celebrate anti-fascist victory in DPRK

Chinese and Russian diplomats in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) jointly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War on July 31.

Chinese Ambassador Wang Yajun said that 80 years ago, China and the Soviet Union fought side by side and supported each other, won the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Great Patriotic War on their respective battlefields, and made significant historical contributions to the victory of the world anti-fascist war. In May this year, President Xi Jinping attended a celebration commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union in the Great Patriotic War. In September, President Putin will also attend the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

Russian Ambassador Alexander Matsegora congratulated the Chinese people on the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, saying that the Russian and Chinese peoples made the greatest sacrifices in the European and Pacific theatres respectively and played a decisive role in the struggle to defeat German Nazism and Japanese militarism.

The following article was originally published in Chinese on the website of the Chinese Embassy in the DPRK and has been machine translated.

On July 31, 2025, Ambassador Wang Yajun and Russian Ambassador to the DPRK Matsegora led diplomats from the Chinese and Russian embassies in the DPRK in a friendly exchange event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The event was attended by Minister Feng Chuntai of the Chinese Embassy in the DPRK, Defense Attaché Major General Wang Yisheng, Counsellor Gao Wu, and Counsellor Xu Feng, as well as Minister Counsellor Topeha, Defense Attaché Major General Batusov, and Political Counselor Shutov of the Russian Embassy in the DPRK.

Ambassador Wang stated that 80 years ago, China and the Soviet Union fought side by side and supported each other, achieving victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Great Patriotic War on their respective fronts, making significant historical contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. In May of this year, President Xi Jinping attended the celebrations commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War. In September, President Putin will also attend the commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. China is willing to work with Russia, guided by the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, to remember history, cherish the memory of the martyrs, promote a correct view of World War II history, safeguard the achievements of World War II and the post-war international order, and uphold international fairness and justice and regional peace and stability.

Ambassador Matsegora congratulated the Chinese people on the 80th anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. He stated that the Russian and Chinese peoples made the greatest sacrifices in the European and Pacific theaters, respectively, and played a decisive role in defeating German Nazism and Japanese militarism. Russia has always advocated peace and hopes to create a peaceful and stable environment for economic development and improving people’s livelihoods. The international community should work together to build a just and peaceful international order and ensure equal rights for all nations and peoples.

The two sides jointly watched a video commemorating the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the victory of Russia’s Great Patriotic War. Chinese and Russian diplomats respectively recited the poem “The Eternal Torch” and sang the song “Blood Type” to express their remembrance of history and their cherishment of peace.

Xi and Putin discuss crisis engendered by Israeli aggression against Iran

Chinese President Xi Jinping held a telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to discuss the crisis engendered by the Israeli aggression against Iran on the afternoon of June 19,2025.

In the approximately one-hour conversation, according to the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Vladimir Putin briefed on Russia’s views on the current situation in the Middle East, saying that Israel’s attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities is extremely dangerous, and that the escalation of the conflict is not in the interest of any party.

Xi Jinping said that if the conflict continues to escalate, not only will both parties to the conflict suffer greater losses, but countries across the region will also be severely affected. He put forward four proposals, namely:

  • Promoting a ceasefire and ending the hostilities is an urgent priority. The use of force is not the right way to resolve international disputes; it will only exacerbate hatred and conflicts.
  • Ensuring the safety of civilians is of paramount importance. The red line of protecting civilians in armed conflicts must not be crossed at any time, and the indiscriminate use of force is unacceptable.
  • Opening dialogue and negotiation is the fundamental way forward. Communication and dialogue are the right ways to achieve lasting peace.
  • Efforts by the international community to promote peace are indispensable. Without stability in the Middle East, there can hardly be peace in the world. The international community, particularly major countries that have special influence on the parties to the conflict, should make efforts to deescalate the situation, rather than the opposite. The United Nations Security Council should play a greater role in this regard.

Further details were provided by Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov.

He said that the President of Russia informed his colleague about his latest international contacts with a focus on his telephone conversations with the key actors in the context of the confrontation between Israel and Iran. The Russian leader reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to offer its good offices, if necessary. The Chinese leader expressed support for this mediation effort, saying that he believed it could promote de-escalation amid the extreme tension we are witnessing today. [Prior to the call with Xi, President Putin had spoken with both Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.]

Turning to other issues, Ushakov said that it was emphasised that the Chinese President’s participation as the main guest in the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War held special significance and served as a compelling testament to the shared steadfast positions in upholding historical truth and preserving the memory of the heroic feats of our forefathers. Both presidents stressed the fact that we stood together back then, stand together now, and will stand together in the future. It has been agreed that the next time the leaders will see each other will be on Chinese soil during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin on August 31-September 1. The two leaders will then take part in the festivities marking the 80th anniversary of victory over militarist Japan and the end of World War II in Beijing on September 3. Full-scale bilateral talks will be held on September 2.

Continue reading Xi and Putin discuss crisis engendered by Israeli aggression against Iran

China and Russia will always remember the just feats of the two peoples in maintaining world peace

During President Xi Jinping’s May 7-10 state visit to Russia, during which he participated in the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War, besides concluding with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin the Joint Declaration on Further Strengthening Cooperation to Uphold the Authority of International Law and that on Global Strategic Stability, the two heads of state also signed a Joint Statement of the People’s Republic of China and the Russian Federation on Further Deepening the China-Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Coordination in the New Era on the Occasion of Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War and the Founding of the United Nations.

This 8,500-word statement not only details a wide range of issues connected to these anniversaries and surveys the broad spectrum of bilateral relations between China and Russia. It also sets out the two countries’ identity of views on a great number of contemporary regional and global issues. As with the other joint statements, it goes into granular detail, demonstrating the unprecedentedly high level not only of agreement but of active and practical coordination between Beijing and Moscow. It is therefore not hyperbole to observe that these documents are of considerable historical significance, contributing to and demonstrating President Xi’s oft stated observation that the world is currently experiencing changes unseen in a century. Therefore anyone with a serious interest in international relations should study them closely.

The statement begins by noting that, “This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the World Anti-Fascist War, and the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. The Second World War was an unprecedented catastrophe in human history. China and the Soviet Union, as the main battlefields in Asia and Europe respectively, stood at the forefront of resisting the attacks of Japanese militarism and Nazi Germany and its vassal states, and were the two backbone forces in the fight against militarism and fascism. The Chinese and Soviet peoples suffered great hardships brought by foreign aggression and the baptism of extremely harsh wars. They fought shoulder to shoulder in arduous struggles, gave each other selfless assistance, made great sacrifices, and achieved great victories, making great historical contributions to defending human dignity and rebuilding world peace.”

In today’s world, China and Russia shoulder the common responsibility and mission of maintaining a correct view of World War II history. China and Russia will always remember the just feats of the two peoples in maintaining world peace, cherish the memory of the tens of millions of heroes and innocent civilians who sacrificed their lives for the freedom and independence of future generations, and pay high tribute to the old soldiers and heroic rear-line workers who made combat exploits during the war years. Both sides will continue to attach importance to educating the younger generation to take the predecessors as role models, adhere to the indelible spirit of patriotism, cultivate the responsibility for the motherland and the people, and promote the fearless spirit of sacrifice for the realisation of national peace and prosperity.

Among many areas of bilateral relations, it states that: “The two sides reiterated that the close relationship between the Chinese and Russian militaries is of special significance, which will help the two countries to more effectively defend their sovereignty and national interests and effectively respond to traditional and non-traditional threats and challenges. The two sides will continue to strengthen military and military-technical cooperation to benefit the people of China and Russia and safeguard global and regional security. The two sides will further deepen military mutual trust and cooperation, expand the scale and scope of joint military exercises, regularly organise joint maritime and air patrols, strengthen exchanges and cooperation under bilateral and multilateral frameworks, and promote China-Russia military cooperation to a higher level.”

Other highlights of the statement include:

Continue reading China and Russia will always remember the just feats of the two peoples in maintaining world peace

Xi attends Russia’s Victory Day celebrations

Following an intensive program of talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 8, Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the grand parade marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War against Nazi Germany on May 9 in Red Square as the chief guest of honour.

Joining the Chinese and Russian presidents were the national leaders of 26 other countries, as follows:

  • Abkhazia
  • Armenia
  • Belarus
  • Republika Srpska in Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Brazil
  • Burkina Faso
  • Republic of Congo
  • Cuba
  • Egypt
  • Equatorial Guinea
  • Ethiopia
  • Guinea Bissau
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Mongolia
  • Myanmar
  • Palestine
  • Serbia
  • Slovakia
  • South Ossetia
  • Tajikistan
  • Turkmenistan
  • Uzbekistan
  • Venezuela
  • Vietnam
  • Zimbabwe

Additionally, high level representatives came from a number of other countries, including India, Indonesia, Nicaragua, and South Africa, as well as from international organisations.

The leader of Laos had to cancel his planned visit after succumbing to a serious COVID infection.

Military units from a number of countries also took part in the parade namely:

Members of the Commonwealth of Independent States who participated in the Great Patriotic War as constituent republics of the Soviet Union:

  • Azerbaijan
  • Belarus
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Tajikistan
  • Turkmenistan
  • Uzbekistan

Friendly Countries:

  • China
  • Vietnam
  • Laos
  • Mongolia
  • Myanmar
  • Egypt

The largest contingent of troops was sent by China.

Additionally, following the parade, Vladimir Putin met with a group of military officers from the Democratic Republic of Korea (DPRK) who had taken part in the recent battles to liberate Kursk from Ukrainian aggression.

In his speech at the parade, President Putin said:

“Today, we are all united by the feelings of joy and grief, pride and gratitude, and admiration for the generation that crushed Nazism and won freedom and peace for all humanity at the cost of millions of lives.

“We remember the lessons of World War II and will never agree with the distortion of those events or attempts to justify the murderers and slander the true victors.

“Our duty is to defend the honour of the Red Army soldiers and commanders, and the heroism of fighters of different ethnic backgrounds who will forever remain Russian soldiers in world history.

Continue reading Xi attends Russia’s Victory Day celebrations

Putin: It is Russia’s strategic choice to unswervingly advance relations with China

Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Russia from May 7-10 to pay a state visit as well as to attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War of the Soviet Union at the invitation of his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

On arriving at Vnukovo International Airport in Moscow on the evening of the 7th, Xi delivered a written statement in which he noted that China and Russia are good neighbours always being there for each other, true friends sharing weal and woe, and good partners helping each other succeed. The independent, mature and resilient China-Russia relationship not only brings great benefits to the people of the two countries but also makes important contributions to maintaining global strategic stability and promoting an equal and orderly multipolar world. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the United Nations. As major countries in the world and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, China and Russia will join hands to defend the outcomes of the victory of World War II, resolutely oppose hegemonism and power politics, practice true multilateralism, and work for a more just and equitable global governance system.

President Xi Jinping added that he looks forward to having in-depth communication with President Vladimir Putin on bilateral relations, practical cooperation and international and regional issues of common interest and concern, which will inject strong impetus into promoting the development of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era. He also looks forward to joining the leaders of many countries and the Russian people in cherishing the memory of those who dedicated their lives to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and jointly sending a strong message of safeguarding international fairness and justice.

On the morning of May 8, the two Presidents held talks in the Kremlin.

President Xi stressed that 80 years ago, the Chinese and Russian peoples made immense sacrifice and secured a great victory. Their pivotal contribution to world peace and human progress is a shining chapter in the annals of history. Today, in the face of unilateralist countercurrents, bullying and acts of power politics, China is working with Russia to shoulder the special responsibilities of major countries and permanent members of the UN Security Council with courage and conviction, uphold the correct historical perspective on WWII, safeguard the authority and standing of the UN, firmly defend the victorious outcome of WWII, resolutely defend the rights and interests of China, Russia and all other developing countries, and jointly promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation.

He added that China and Russia should keep to the overall direction of cooperation, steer clear of external interference, and provide a more solid foundation and more robust momentum for cooperation. The two sides should leverage their complementary resource endowments and industrial systems to expand high-quality, mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, agriculture, aviation and aerospace, and artificial intelligence. They should build a high-standard framework for connectivity by synergising Belt and Road cooperation and the Eurasian Economic Union. The potential of the China-Russia Years of Culture should be fully unleashed, with greater cooperation in education, film, tourism, sports, and subnational exchanges to foster closer people-to-people bonds. China and Russia should engage in closer coordination and cooperation on multilateral platforms such as the UN, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and BRICS to maintain Global South solidarity, uphold true multilateralism, and spearhead global governance reforms in the right direction.

President Putin expressed a warm welcome to President Xi for his state visit to Russia and participation in the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. This visit is of great significance, as it will not only inject strong momentum into the development of Russia-China relations but also help safeguard the victorious outcome of WWII.

Putin went on to say that the Russia-China relationship is built on equality and mutual respect. It is neither directed against any third party nor swayed by any transient matters. It is Russia’s strategic choice to unswervingly advance relations and expand mutually beneficial cooperation with China.

Continue reading Putin: It is Russia’s strategic choice to unswervingly advance relations with China

Second International Anti-Fascist Forum in Moscow

The Communist Party of the Russian Federation (CPRF) held the second International Anti-Fascist Forum in Moscow, from April 22–24 as the Russian capital prepared for a massive international celebration on May 9 of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Hitler fascism.

The conference was attended by 164 delegations from 91 countries, representing communist and left-wing parties and progressive mass organisations.

Addressing the opening session on behalf of the Communist Party of China, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Victory of the Soviet Union in the Great Patriotic War. The Chinese and Russian peoples, unafraid of threats and violence, fought in bloody battles, made enormous national sacrifices to contain the onslaught and destroy the aggressors, protect the state sovereignty and dignity of the country, and thus made an important historical contribution to the Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.

He stressed that China and the Communist Party of China are willing to work with all progressive forces, including the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, to uphold the post-war world order, take the 80th anniversary of the UN as an opportunity to implement genuine multilateralism, firmly safeguard the authority and role of the UN, ensure real implementation of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world, as well as an accessible and inclusive economic globalisation, effectively promote the democratisation of international relations, and promote the formation of a more just and reasonable new model of global governance.

The following article was originally published on the website of the Chinese Embassy in Moscow. It was published in Russian and has been machine translated.

Further information and commentary on the forum were published by People’s Democracy, People’s World, the New Worker and Peoples Dispatch.

On April 23, Ambassador Zhang Hanhui took part in the International Anti-Fascist Conference organized by the Communist Party of the Russian Federation. The meeting was chaired by the First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, First Deputy Chairman of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, Chairman of the Russian-Chinese Friendship Society I.I. Melnikov. The Chairman of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation G.A. Zyuganov delivered a keynote speech at the conference. More than 400 representatives of communist parties, workers and left-wing forces from 91 countries took part in the event.

In his speech, Ambassador Zhang Hanhui noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Victory of the Soviet Union in the Great Patriotic War. The Chinese and Russian peoples, unafraid of threats and violence, fought in bloody battles, made enormous national sacrifices to contain the onslaught and destroy the aggressors, protect the state sovereignty and dignity of the country, and thus made an important historical contribution to the Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.

Zhang Hanhui stressed that China and the Communist Party of China are willing to work with all progressive forces, including the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, to uphold the post-war world order, take the 80th anniversary of the UN as an opportunity to implement genuine multilateralism, firmly safeguard the authority and role of the UN, ensure real implementation of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world, as well as an accessible and inclusive economic globalization, effectively promote the democratization of international relations, and promote the formation of a more just and reasonable new model of global governance.

The forum participants called on all progressive forces to unite in a joint fight against any manifestations of colonialism and Nazism, to defend the results of victory in World War II, as well as the principles of international justice and impartiality.

After the forum, Ambassador Zhang Hanhui held a warm and friendly meeting with the Chairman of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation G.A. Zyuganov, during which issues of developing relations between the parties of the two countries were discussed.

Xi Jinping: Learning from history to build together a brighter future

On May 7, Chinese President Xi Jinping began a state visit to Russia where he will also attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War of the Soviet Union at the invitation of his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

Ahead of his arrival, the Chinese leader published an article in the government newspaper Rossiyskaya Gazeta (Russian Gazette).

In his article President Xi recalled that: “Ten years ago around this time, I came to Russia to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the victory. During that visit, I made a special arrangement to meet with 18 representatives of Russian veterans who endured the blood and fire of battlefields during the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War and the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Their unyielding resolve and indomitable bearing left an indelible impression on me. In the past few years, General M. Gareyev, Major General T. Shchudlo and other veterans passed away. I pay my deepest tribute to them and to all veterans – from generals to the rank and file-for their extraordinary service and heroic feats in securing the victory over fascists around the world. We will never forget them.”

Xi noted that: “During the World Anti-Fascist War, the Chinese and Russian peoples fought shoulder to shoulder and supported each other. In the darkest hours of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Volunteer Group, which was part of the Soviet Air Force, came to Nanjing, Wuhan and Chongqing to fight alongside the Chinese people, bravely engaging Japanese invaders in aerial combat – many sacrificing their precious lives.”

He added that: “At the critical juncture of the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War, Yan Baohang, a legendary intelligence agent of the Communist Party of China (CPC) who was hailed as the ‘Richard Sorge of the East,’ provided the Soviet Union with primary-source intelligence.”

[Yan Baohang (1895-1968) was an intelligence agent of the CPC and the Communist International, entrusted by later Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai. Based behind enemy lines in Chongqing, in May 1941 the one-time student at Edinburgh University was able to discover the exact date – June 22 – of the planned German attack on the Soviet Union. He managed to get the information to the communist base area in Yan’an by June 6, where Mao Zedong ordered it to be conveyed to Moscow and where it reached Stalin, enabling important preparations to be made in time. On June 30, eight days after the German attack, Stalin telegraphed Yan’an, to thank Yan “for his accurate information that prompted us to prepare for what’s to come.”

[Richard Sorge (1895-1944) was one of the most brilliant intelligence officers of the Communist International and the Soviet Red Army’s Fourth Department, later known as the GRU or military intelligence. Known particularly for his work in Shanghai and then in Tokyo, he was eventually arrested by the Japanese authorities in October 1941 and hanged in Tokyo on November 7, 1944, the fascists having deliberately chosen to execute this outstanding and courageous internationalist fighter for communism on the anniversary of the October Socialist Revolution. He was posthumously awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union.]

Drawing attention to the contemporary significance of the 80th anniversary, Xi wrote: “Eighty years ago, the forces of justice around the world, including China and the Soviet Union, united in courageous battles against their common foes and defeated the overbearing fascist powers. Eighty years later today, however, unilateralism, hegemonism, bullying, and coercive practices are severely undermining our world. Again, humankind has come to a crossroads of unity or division, dialogue or confrontation, win-win cooperation or zero-sum games… We must learn from history, especially the hard lessons of the Second World War. We must draw wisdom and strength from the great victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and resolutely resist all forms of hegemonism and power politics. We must work together to build a brighter future for humanity.”

Continue reading Xi Jinping: Learning from history to build together a brighter future

Wang Yi: China and Russia are “forever friends, never enemies”

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Moscow at the beginning of April, with his main agenda being the preparation of President Xi Jinping’s upcoming visit in May for the 80th anniversary celebrations of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War against Nazi Germany.

Meeting with Wang on April 1, Russian President Vladimir Putin called on Russia and China to consistently enhance their strategic cooperation amid global turbulence. Marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War, Putin extended an invitation for Chinese representatives to attend commemorative events in Russia. He emphasised the shared historical significance of celebrating victories over Nazi fascism and Japanese militarism, stating that Russia is fully making preparations for the occasion and added that this milestone should propel Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership to new heights and strengthen multilateral collaboration within frameworks such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and the BRICS + mechanism.

Responding, Wang Yi recalled that over 80 years ago, the peoples of China and the Soviet Union fought tenaciously on the Asian and European fronts, sacrificing immensely to defeat Japanese militarism and Nazi fascism, thereby contributing decisively to global peace. Today, as pivotal stabilising forces in a turbulent world, China and Russia must jointly uphold the outcomes of World War II, defend the post-war international order, and reinforce the United Nations’ central role in the global system. Both countries, he added, are committed to advancing multilateralism and democratising international relations.

He further said that the two countries have aligned their plans to support each other’s 80th-anniversary commemorative events, expressing confidence that the leaders’ engagements this year will further promote bilateral ties.

The official website of the Russian President published extracts from the two men’s opening remarks.

President Putin said: “I am aware that you have an extensive and busy programme for your visit. First of all, it is connected with preparations for the visit of the President of the People’s Republic of China to Russia. We will prepare a good and fulfilling programme. I hope it will involve not only participation in solemn events but will also be a separate visit. The President of the People’s Republic of China will be our main guest, and we will have an opportunity to discuss the current state of bilateral relations and our interaction on international venues, primarily the UN – the UN Security Council – as well as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, BRICS and a number of other platforms where we work together with great success.” [A number of analysts have suggested that Putin’s reference to Xi as being the “main guest” means either that the speculation that US President Donald Trump might also visit Moscow at this time is without foundation or that the US President would be accorded a lower protocol status than his Chinese counterpart.]

Wang Yi responded: “You have accurately noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of Great Victory in the war against Nazism and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN. Eighty years ago, the Chinese and Soviet people fought bravely in Europe and Asia, on the main front, suffered heavy national losses, and defeated militaristic Japan and Nazi Germany, thus making a major contribution to peace for humanity. Eighty years later, today we must unite to uphold the outcomes of World War II, the post-war world order, and the UN-centric international system, and join our efforts to promote multipolarity and democratisation of international relations.

“Mr President, you accurately noted that preparations for President Xi Jinping’s visit and his participation in the celebrations to be held in early May are the main purpose of my current visit. Before this meeting with you now, Minister Lavrov and I have met to align every item on our agenda that concerns preparations for this visit.”

In the above-mentioned meeting with Sergey Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Minister said that his country highly appreciates the global initiatives that China proposed, fully supports China’s position on the Taiwan question, and is willing to jointly uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and safeguard a just and equitable international order.

Discussing Ukraine, Wang reiterated China’s consistent position and expressed support for all peace efforts, noting that China is willing to continue to build more international consensus through the Group of Friends for Peace and play a constructive role in promoting a political settlement of the crisis.

During his visit, Wang Yi also gave an extensive and exclusive interview to the Russia Today media group.

On the overall state of bilateral relations, he said:

“Under the strategic leadership of President Xi Jinping and President Putin, the partnership and strategic interaction between China and Russia has been continuously deepened, which not only fully meets the logic of history, but also proves the powerful self-sufficiency of bilateral ties. This allows us to live in peace, harmony and common prosperity, and furthermore contributes to the formation of a multipolar world and the democratisation of international relations.

“Today’s Sino-Russian relations have three characteristics: First, ‘Forever friends, never enemies.’ Our relations have matured on the basis of continuously summing up historical experience and learning from past lessons. The leaders of the two countries, with their inherent political foresight, made a historic decision to ‘close the past and open the future.’

“Second, equality and mutually beneficial cooperation. Chinese-Russian relations have acquired a qualitatively new content and scope. Cooperation is not only high-level, but also accessible to ordinary people, brings real tangible benefits to our peoples and provides enormous benefits to other countries of the world. 

“Third, non-alignment, non-confrontation and non-targeting of third parties. Sino-Russian relations do not pose any threat to others, much less are they subject to outside interference or disruption and are not only a modern example of a new type of relationship between major powers, but also an important stabilising factor in a turbulent world.”

Continue reading Wang Yi: China and Russia are “forever friends, never enemies”

China, Russia and Iran condemn unlawful unilateral sanctions

Against a background of US President Donald Trump’s heightened threats to Iran, unmistakably contained in his recent letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, ostensibly offering dialogue, and the aggravated threat of a general and all out war in West Asia, an important meeting, at Deputy Foreign Minister level, between China, Russia and Iran, was held in Beijing on March 14.

It was chaired by Deputy Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu of the People’s Republic of China, with participation of Deputy Foreign Minister Ryabkov Sergey Alexeevich of the Russian Federation and Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The three countries engaged in in-depth discussions on the latest state of play with regard to the Iranian nuclear issue and the question of sanctions lifting and issued a joint statement.

The statement emphasised the necessity of terminating all unlawful unilateral sanctions and reiterated that political and diplomatic engagement and dialogue based on the principle of mutual respect remain the only viable and practical option. Relevant parties, they noted, should be committed to addressing the root cause of the current situation and abandoning sanction, pressure, or threat of force.

They also reiterated the importance of upholding the Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as the cornerstone of the international non-proliferation regime. China and Russia welcomed Iran’s reiteration that its nuclear programme is exclusively for peaceful purposes and not for development of nuclear weapons.

Iran and Russia commended China for its constructive role and for hosting the Beijing meeting. The three countries agreed to continue their close consultation and cooperation in the future. They also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest and agreed to maintain and strengthen their coordination in international organisations and multilateral arrangements such as BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Also on March 14, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with the Deputy Foreign Ministers of Russia and Iran.

Wang Yi said that over the past year or so, tensions in the Middle East have continued to escalate, with the regional security situation deteriorating significantly and hotspot issues emerging one after another. He added that there are enough issues in the Middle East, and all parties should focus on addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, an unresolved historical injustice lingering since World War II, rather than creating new tensions or even crises.

The Chinese Foreign Minister put forward a five-point proposal on the Iranian nuclear issue, the first of which is to stay committed to peaceful settlement of disputes through political and diplomatic means and to oppose the use of force and illegal sanctions.

Meanwhile, in the days immediately before the meeting, China, Russia and Iran held joint naval drills in the Gulf of Oman. It was the fifth year for the three countries to hold such joint drills, which begun near the Iranian port of Chabahar.

The Chinese newspaper Global Times reported that the exercises featured three phases – an assembly and preparation phase, a maritime drill phase and a harbour summary phase.

The maritime drill phase featured such training courses as maritime target strikes, VBSS (visit, board, search and seizure), damage control, as well as joint search and rescue operations. Exercises included live-fire shooting of heavy machine guns against maritime targets, night live-fire shooting practices, light communication practices, rescuing simulated hijacked commercial ships and a fleet review.

Zhang Junshe, a Chinese military affairs expert, told Global Times that the exercises had boosted the three navies’ maritime combat capabilities through maritime strike and damage control trainings. Routine joint exercises among the three sides continuously enhance their navies’ interoperability, he added, and the three sides’ joint command and control as well as joint strike capabilities were displayed through the drill courses.

Qatar based Al Jazeera noted that the exercises had got underway at a time when Iran accused the US of bullying. It noted that the Russian Ministry of Defence reported that “the ships’ crews conducted daytime and nighttime fire from large-calibre machine guns and small arms at targets simulating unmanned boats and unmanned aerial vehicles of a mock enemy.”

Al Jazeera further noted that Iran’s Press TV reported that naval groups from Azerbaijan, South Africa, Oman, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Qatar, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates and Sri Lanka also observed the drills.

The following articles were originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Joint Statement of the Beijing Meeting between China, Russia and Iran

March 14 (MFA) — The Beijing Meeting between China, Russia and Iran was successfully held on March 14, 2025. The Beijing Meeting was chaired by Deputy Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu of the People’s Republic of China, with participation of Deputy Foreign Minister Ryabkov Sergey Alexeevich of the Russian Federation and Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

China, Russia and Iran engaged in in-depth discussions on the latest state of play with regard to nuclear issue and sanctions lifting. The three countries emphasized on the necessity of terminating all unlawful unilateral sanctions.

Continue reading China, Russia and Iran condemn unlawful unilateral sanctions

Donald Trump’s Reverse Kissinger strategy

In the following article, Vijay Prashad analyses what is being referred to as Donald Trump’s ‘Reverse Kissinger Strategy’, namely an apparent attempt to end the conflict in Ukraine and improve relations with Russia to a certain extent, with a view to concentrating US firepower on China.

Vijay first outlines Trump’s moves regarding Ukraine and NATO and towards the arms industry at home and continues:

There is a fundamental misreading of these moves by the Trump administration. They are sometimes seen as the idiosyncratic flailing of a far-right president who is committed to putting ‘America First’ and so is unwilling to pursue expensive wars that are not in its interest. But this is a short-sighted and erroneous assessment of Trump’s phone call with Putin on Ukraine and approach to the US military. Rather than see this as an isolationist manoeuvre, it is important to understand that Trump is attempting to pursue a ‘Reverse Kissinger Strategy’, namely, to befriend Russia to isolate China.

According to Vijay, Trump understands that Russia is not an existential threat to the United States. “However, China’s rapid development of technology and science as well as of the new productive forces genuinely poses a threat to US domination of the key sectors of the global economy. It is the US perceived ‘threat’ from China that motivates Trump’s approach to alliances and enemies.”

He notes that both US President Richard Nixon and his Secretary of State Henry Kissinger closely followed the steadily worsening split between the Soviet Union and China: “When Nixon became president, the USSR-PRC border dispute around Zhenbao Island almost escalated with a potential Soviet nuclear strike against Beijing.” It was this tragic division that provided the opening for the United States. “Nixon’s epochal visit to China was entirely driven by US interests to divide Russia and China so that the US could establish its power around the Asian continent.”

Vijay concludes that what the United States is now doing is to attempt to break the relation established between China and Russia since 2007, but:

It is worth remembering Kissinger’s assessment of the Chinese leadership in 1971: ‘Their interest is 100 percent political… Remember, these are men of ideological purity. Zhou Enlai joined the Communist Party in France in 1920… before there was a Chinese Communist Party. This generation didn’t fight for 50 years and go on the Long March for trade’. This view captures not only Zhou Enlai and Mao Zedong, but also Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping. They too have been steeled in a struggle against the United States over the course of the past decade. It is unlikely that a few baubles will attract Putin to adopt Trump’s ‘Reverse Kissinger Strategy’.

The article was originally published by No Cold War.

US President Donald Trump called Russia’s President Vladimir Putin and told him that his government is committed to a peace process in Ukraine. As part of the deal, Trump’s administration made it clear that sections of eastern Ukraine and the Crimea would remain in Russian hands. Speaking at the headquarters of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), Trump’s Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that it was ‘unrealistic’ to assume that Ukraine would return to its pre-2014 borders, which means that Crimea would not be part of any negotiations with Russia. NATO membership for Ukraine, he said, was not going to be possible as far as the United States was concerned. The United States, Hegseth told NATO, was not ‘primarily focused’ on European security, but on putting its own national interests first and foremost. The best that the European leaders at NATO could do was to demand that Ukraine have a seat at the talks, but there was very little said against the US pressure that Russia be given concessions to come to the table. Ukraine and Europe can have their say, Hegseth said, but Trump would set the agenda. ‘What he decides to allow and not allow is at the purview of the leader of the free world, of President Trump’, Hegseth said with characteristic midwestern swagger. The cowboys, he said with his body language, are back in charge.

While Hegseth was in Brussels, Trump was in Washington, DC with his close ally Elon Musk. Both are on a rampage to cut government spending. Over the past five decades, the US government has already shrunk, particularly when it comes to social welfare provision. What remains are areas that have been jealously guarded by the large corporations, such as the arms industry. It had always seemed as if this industry was inviolate and that cuts in military spending in the United States would be impossible to sustain. But the arms industry can rest easy (except Lockheed Martin, which might lose its subsidy for the F-35 fighter jet); Musk and his team are not going to cut military contracts but go after the military and civilian employees. During his confirmation hearing, Hegseth told the Senators that during World War II the United States had seven four-star generals and now it has forty-four of them. ‘There is an inverse relationship between the size of staffs and victory on the battlefield. We do not need more bureaucracy at the top. We need more war fighters empowered at the bottom’. He said that the ‘fat can be cut, so [the US military] can go toward lethality’.

Continue reading Donald Trump’s Reverse Kissinger strategy

Cold Peace with Russia / Cold War with China: Trump’s foreign policy agenda

The following article by C.J. Atkins, published first in People’s World, analyses the apparently drastic differences between the Trump and Biden administrations’ foreign policy agendas, explaining the underlying strategic and ideological agenda behind Trump’s pivot on Ukraine, and debunking the assorted “simplistic hot takes centered on Trump’s admiration for strongmen or conspiratorial allegations that hinge on Russian blackmail and compromising material”.

Atkins gets to the heart of the issue by pointing out that the differences between Republicans and Democrats over Ukraine are “evidence of a split within the US ruling class which has exploded into the open. At the heart of that split are differences over how to resolve the long-term crisis of US capitalism and confront China’s rise to prominence in the world economy.” He explains that the Washington foreign policy establishment has spent years attempting to weaken Russia, seeing “the further extension of US power in Europe as an important milestone along the road to dealing with China”. Trump on the other hand aims to “take confrontation with Russia off the table”, considering it an “expensive distraction”.

The author further opines that Trump’s tariffs and coercive measures against Canada, Mexico, and Latin America are aimed at bringing those parts of the world “into a tighter embrace with the US economy”, consolidating a trade bloc that excludes and attempts to isolate China. That is, they extend the “decoupling” agenda pursued during Trump 1.0 as well as by the Biden administration.

With US monopoly capital increasingly feeling the competition from China, “the foreign policy being pursued by the Trump administration is an expression of the fears of a large section of the capitalist class, and those fears are why we have witnessed a rush toward the Trump camp by industrial sectors which had previously been skeptical of or neutral toward him.”

If the war in Ukraine can be swiftly ended, this is undoubtedly positive. But people should not think Trump’s overtures to Russia reflect some overarching orientation towards peace. Aggression against Russia is set to be replaced with “a new Cold War against China, the carving up of the world into blocs on behalf of big corporations, more destruction in the Middle East, and the ditching of democracy at home—along with all the things that entails, like labor laws, women’s rights, racial equality, and more.”

Trump labeled President Volodymyr Zelensky a “dictator” and called him out for not holding elections earlier this week. He said the Ukrainian leader only wants to “keep the gravy train” of U.S. money rolling in, and blamed him for starting the war with Russia.

Vladimir Putin, meanwhile, was said to be committed to “common sense.” The White House declared him to be someone Trump can “work together” with “very closely.”

What a world of difference from just a few months ago when a different U.S. president called Zelensky a “courageous and determined” defender of democracy and denounced Putin as a “war criminal.”

This dramatic turnaround is just the latest example of the about-face that’s happened in U.S. foreign policy over the last several weeks—a change that’s sparked confusion and bewilderment as 80 years of U.S. imperial strategy is seemingly being thrown overboard.

In Europe, Vice President J.D. Vance recently trashed political leaders there for not working together with fascists and initiated what one commentator called “the opening salvo in a trans-Atlantic divorce proceeding.” Snubbing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Trump’s V.P. met with Alice Weidel, leader of the neo-Nazi Alternative for Germany party, instead.

Continue reading Cold Peace with Russia / Cold War with China: Trump’s foreign policy agenda

Putin: developing relations with China is a strategic choice made by Russia with a view to the long term

Chinese President Xi Jinping took a phone call from his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on February 24. It is the second time that the two men have been known to speak this year and follows the recent dramatic changes in the United States’ position on the Ukraine crisis and the resultant diplomatic contacts between Russia and the US.

President Xi said that both history and reality tell us that China and Russia are destined to be good neighbours, and the two countries are true friends that share weal and woe, support each other and pursue common development. The bilateral relationship has a strong internal driving force and unique strategic value. It is neither targeted at any third party nor affected by any third party. Both countries have long-term development strategies and foreign policies. No matter how the international landscape changes, the relationship shall move forward at its own pace, contribute to both countries’ respective development and revitalisation, and inject stability and positivity into international relations.

For his part, President Putin said that developing relations with China is a strategic choice made by Russia with a view to the long term; it is not an act of expediency, not affected by any temporary incidents, and not subject to interference by external factors. Under the current situation, close communication between Russia and China is in keeping with the two countries’ comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era and will send a positive message that Russia and China play a stabilising role in international affairs. He further provided an update on the latest interactions between Russia and the United States, and on Russia’s principled position on the Ukraine crisis. He said that Russia is committed to removing the root causes of the conflict and arriving at a sustainable and long-term peace plan.

The following article was originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry. Useful background analysis may be found here.

In the afternoon of February 24, President Xi Jinping took a phone call from Russian President Vladimir Putin.

President Xi recalled that during the virtual meeting with President Putin before the Spring Festival, we provided guidance for the growth of China-Russia relations in 2025 and coordinated position on many major international and regional issues. Our two countries’ competent authorities have acted on our common understandings to steadily advance cooperation in various fields, including commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese people’s war of resistance against Japanese aggression and the world’s anti-fascist war. Both history and reality tell us that China and Russia are destined to be good neighbors, and our two countries are true friends that share weal and woe, support each other and pursue common development. Our bilateral relationship has a strong internal driving force and unique strategic value. It is neither targeted at any third party nor affected by any third party. Both countries have long-term development strategies and foreign policies. No matter how the international landscape changes, our relationship shall move forward at its own pace, contribute to our countries’ respective development and revitalization, and inject stability and positivity into international relations.

President Putin said that Russia attaches great importance to its relations with China. In the year ahead, the Russian side looks forward to maintaining high-level exchanges with China, deepening practical cooperation, jointly commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory in the world’s anti-fascist war and in the Chinese people’s war of resistance against Japanese aggression. Developing relations with China is a strategic choice made by Russia with a view to the long term; it is not an act of expediency, not affected by any temporary incidents, and not subject to interference by external factors. Under the current situation, close communication between Russia and China is in keeping with the two countries’ comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era, and will send a positive message that Russia and China play a stabilizing role in international affairs.

President Putin provided an update on the latest interactions between Russia and the United States, and on Russia’s principled position on the Ukraine crisis. He said that Russia is committed to removing the root causes of the conflict and reaching a sustainable and long-term peace plan.

President Xi noted that soon after the full escalation of the Ukraine crisis, I had outlined China’s basic position, including four points about what must be done to address the crisis. Last September, China and Brazil, together with other Global South countries, launched the group of Friends for Peace to foster the atmosphere and condition for the political settlement of the crisis. China welcomes positive efforts made by Russia and relevant parties to resolve the crisis.

The two sides agreed to maintain communication and coordination in various ways.

Wang Yi: China will always be a trustworthy and reliable friend and partner of South Africa

Whilst attending the G20 Foreign Ministers meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held meetings on the sidelines with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), along with his counterparts from a number of countries.

Wang met with President Ramaphosa on February 20.

Cyril Ramaphosa asked Wang Yi to convey his sincere greetings to President Xi Jinping and expressed his heartfelt thanks to China for its firm support for South Africa’s struggle for national independence and its valuable help in accelerating national development. South Africa cherishes the high-level mutual trust between the two countries, regards China as a reliable friend, and will continue to firmly pursue the one-China policy.

Wang Yi conveyed the cordial greetings from President Xi Jinping, saying that China and South Africa have always understood and supported each other and carried out close exchanges, communication and coordination, which demonstrates the high level of bilateral relations. In the process of South Africa’s development and revitalisation, China will always be a trustworthy and reliable friend and partner of South Africa and is willing to continue to provide assistance within its capacity.

The next day he met with his South African counterpart Ronald Lamola.

Wang said, by assuming the G20 presidency, South Africa represents Africa in making a strong voice on the global stage, which demonstrates the historic shifts in international political and economic landscapes and holds great symbolic significance. As multilateralism faces threats amid the rise of unilateral bullying and protectionism, the foreign ministers’ meeting under the theme ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability’ has reflected the common aspirations of most countries, especially those from the Global South.

Ronald Lamola thanked China for its strong support for South Africa’s G20 presidency. In the face of a volatile international situation, South Africa remains committed to strengthening close coordination and cooperation with China to safeguard the common interests of the Global South countries.

In her meeting with Wang, World Trade Organisation Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said that amid the chaos in the world, China has moved in the right direction, achieved the UN poverty reduction target ahead of schedule, advanced industrialisation rapidly and made remarkable achievements in education. China’s success has set an example and provided references for other developing countries.

One of Wang’s first meetings on arriving in South Africa was with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who had come direct from talks on the Ukraine issue with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, held in Saudi Arabia.

Wang Yi said that the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era is advancing to a higher level and broader dimensions. The two sides have maintained steady progress in mutually beneficial cooperation and engaged in close and effective strategic coordination, playing a crucial role in safeguarding the common interests of both countries and their peoples and advancing the multipolarity in the world.

This year, he continued, marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the United Nations, which is of great historic significance. During that arduous struggle, the peoples of China and Russia fought valiantly on both the Eastern and Western fronts, enduring tremendous national sacrifices and making significant historical contributions in the effort to save their nations from the brink of destruction and strive for world peace. China and Russia, as major victorious nations of World War II and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, jointly bear the crucial responsibility of safeguarding the victorious results of World War II and maintaining the post-war international order. No matter how the situation evolves, the foundation of China-Russia friendship remains unshakable. Both sides should take the opportunity of jointly commemorating the 80th anniversary to deepen China-Russia strategic coordination, actively promote the correct view on World War II, firmly defend the international system with the United Nations at its core and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Global South countries.

Sergei Lavrov said, President Vladimir Putin and President Xi Jinping charted the course for Russia-China relations and strategic coordination. Russia is also willing to work with China to hold a series of events to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of World War II. Russia also highly recognises the global initiatives put forward by China, highly values the high-level mutual trust between the two countries and is willing to continue to strengthen communication and coordination with China within the BRICS mechanism, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the United Nations, the G20, and other frameworks.

Sergei Lavrov also introduced the latest developments in the Ukraine crisis and Russia’s considerations, saying that his country focuses on solving the root causes of the crisis and is committed to seeking a fair and sustainable plan for peace in line with the UN Charter. Russia attaches importance to China’s objective and just position, and the ‘Friends for Peace’ group China initiated with Brazil and other countries, and is willing to maintain communication with China and strengthen cooperation with the countries of the South.

Wang Yi met with Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan at the latter’s request.

Continue reading Wang Yi: China will always be a trustworthy and reliable friend and partner of South Africa