Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, Moscow has looked to Beijing as an economic lifeline, with the two increasing trade to record levels. This comes at a time when Russia is facing heavy economic sanctions from the West.
"Our trade relations are developing successfully. The attention paid by the governments of both countries to trade and economic ties is bearing fruit. Our countries have developed large-scale joint plans, projects in the economic and humanitarian spheres, which we expect for many years to come," Putin said at the meeting with Li.
In May, Putin visited his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in Beijing. The Russian leader described the partnership as a "stabilizing force in a chaotic world."
Over the past two years, the West has viewed the two countries with heightened concern as they forge ties, seeking to exert their global influence abroad.
Days before Russia launches its full-scale military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Beijing and Moscow announced a "partnership without borders."
Meanwhile, China benefits from cheap Russian energy imports and access to vast natural resources, including a steady supply of gas through the Power of Siberia pipeline. | BGNES
