Putin Plans Official Visit to China Amid Strengthened Ties and Western Concerns

Putin Announces Upcoming Visit to China

Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed plans for an official visit to China during a televised meeting with Russian employers on Thursday. This trip, scheduled for May, marks his first international travel since his re-election and amidst an International Criminal Court arrest warrant issued against him in March 2023.

Deepening Relations Between Russia and China

The relationship between Moscow and Beijing has grown increasingly close, with both nations enhancing their economic, diplomatic, and military cooperation. This partnership has been particularly evident since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022. During a recent visit by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to China, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to further strengthen ties with Russia.

Strategic Partnership and Global South Unity

In addition to bilateral cooperation, Xi Jinping has urged for unity among the countries of the "Global South," which includes nations from South America and Africa. Both leaders have expressed intentions to challenge Western dominance and promote reforms in the global governance system.

Western Concerns Over the Russia-China Alliance

Western countries have expressed apprehension about the strengthening alliance between Russia and China, cautioning Beijing against indirectly supporting the Russian military efforts in Ukraine. They continue to press China to leverage its influence over Russia to help bring an end to the conflict.