Putin's Beijing visit to focus on bilateral relations

Beijing: Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit China this week at the invitation of leader Xi Jinping, announced Beijing's foreign ministry on Tuesday.

Putin's visit, scheduled from Thursday to Friday, marks his second trip to China in just over six months.

This visit will be Putin's first trip abroad since his re-election in March and his second to China within a relatively short period. Analysts suggest that Russia's ties with China have grown increasingly significant amid Western sanctions imposed over its military actions, reported AFP.

Beijing has emphasized its robust partnership with Moscow, enjoying benefits such as cheap energy imports and access to abundant natural resources. However, Chinese banks are cautious due to fears of US sanctions affecting their global financial connections, thus affecting their dealings with Russian businesses.

Trade between China and Russia has flourished, reaching $240 billion in 2023. However, Chinese exports to Russia saw a decline in March and April amid concerns over potential sanctions.

Putin's visit to Beijing mirrors Xi Jinping's trip to Russia last year. Experts anticipate symbolic gestures of solidarity between the two leaders, alongside potential trade deals and pledges to boost economic cooperation.

Despite China's cautious stance due to its ties with the West, Putin understands Beijing's strategic importance in supporting Moscow against Western pressures. The visit is expected to reinforce the alliance between the two nations, seen as critical in countering Western influence.