Russian President Vladimir Putin declared on Tuesday that relations between Russia and China have reached a “truly unprecedented level” in a video address ahead of his state visit to China, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday.
Putin emphasized that “reciprocal visits and regular high‑level talks between Russia and China are an important and essential element of our joint efforts to promote the full spectrum of relations between our two countries and to unlock their truly unlimited potential.”
He noted that the special nature of Russia‑China relations is reflected in an atmosphere of mutual understanding and trust, in the commitment to pursue fair and mutually beneficial cooperation, respectful dialogue, and mutual support on issues concerning the fundamental interests of both countries, including the protection of sovereignty and national unity.
Putin recalled that 25 years ago, Russia and China signed the Treaty of Good‑Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation, which laid a solid foundation for a truly strategic relationship and a comprehensive partnership benefiting both nations and their peoples.
Russia and China are actively developing contacts in political, economic, and other fields, while expanding cultural exchanges and encouraging people‑to‑people interactions, he continued.
“Together, we are doing everything possible to further deepen bilateral collaboration and advance the overall development of our countries,” Putin said, stressing that these issues will be on the agenda of the upcoming discussions in Beijing.
He added that he deeply appreciates President Xi Jinping’s commitment to long‑term cooperation with Russia. “I am convinced that our warm and friendly ties allow us to design the most ambitious projects for the future and to bring them to life,” he assured.
Trade between Russia and China continues to grow, having long surpassed the $200 billion mark, with mutual settlements now conducted almost exclusively in rubles and yuan, Putin noted.
Major initiatives are underway in key areas of bilateral cooperation, he observed. Following the success of the Russia‑China Years of Culture, the Russia‑China Years of Education were launched in January, marking the 10th edition of these bilateral projects in the field of people‑to‑people exchanges.
Putin said Russia holds in high regard China’s centuries‑old history and its achievements in culture, art, and science. “We wish to bring our peoples closer, further promote mutual understanding, and make full use of the positive aspects offered by the rich traditions and heritage of both countries.”
He also welcomed the establishment of a visa‑free regime between the two countries, judging that this agreement facilitates trade and tourism while opening new opportunities for communication and personal contacts between Russian and Chinese citizens.
Putin stressed that the close strategic relations between Russia and China play a major stabilizing role globally. “Without allying against anyone, we seek peace and universal prosperity.”“
In this spirit, Moscow and Beijing act in a coordinated manner to defend international law and the provisions of the UN Charter in their entirety, comprehensiveness, and interdependence,” he said.
“We support active cooperation through the UN, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), BRICS, and other multilateral entities, thereby making a substantial contribution to addressing urgent global and regional challenges,” he added.
“I am convinced that together, we will continue to do everything possible to deepen the partnership and good‑neighborly relations between Russia and China, serving the dynamic development of our two countries and the well‑being of our peoples, in the interest of maintaining global security and stability,” Putin concluded.
The Russian head of state will make a state visit to China on May 19‑20 at the invitation of President Xi.
(Source: Xinhua / Photo: VCG)