Political Report

Beijing is preparing for the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has praised the "unprecedented" level of relations between China and Russia ahead of his state visit. This visit comes more than two years into Russia's invasion of Ukraine, during which China has emerged as a crucial ally for Russia. Despite extensive international sanctions, China continues to trade with Russia, a stance that has angered the US and the European Union.

Strengthening Alliances Amid Global Tensions

President Putin's visit to China marks his first foreign trip since starting his fifth presidential term. The two-day state visit underscores the deepening ties between the two nations. Putin's remarks to Chinese state media highlighted their relationship reaching its "highest level ever," expressing admiration for Chinese culture and mentioning that some of his family members are learning Mandarin.

The personal rapport between Xi and Putin is notable. Their friendship has been publicly displayed on various occasions, from sharing cake and vodka in Indonesia to a high-speed train ride across China making traditional steamed buns. This camaraderie has translated into closer bilateral ties, with trade between the two countries surging by 30% in the first half of this year.