Putin China visit 2026 Russian President sends big message to friend Xi jinping hours before meet

Ahead of his May 19-20 visit to Beijing, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed Russia-China ties as being at an “unprecedented level,” describing the partnership as one built on trust, mutual respect, and strategic co-operation. Putin praised Chinese President Xi Jinping for strengthening long-term ties and said Moscow views Beijing as a crucial global partner. He highlighted booming bilateral trade, now exceeding $200 billion, with most transactions conducted in national currencies. Putin also stressed that Russia and China are not forming an alliance against anyone, but are working together to defend international law, the UN Charter, and strengthen platforms like BRICS and the SCO.

Putin China Visit 2026: Russian President Sends Big Message To 'Friend' Xi Jinping Hours Before Meet