Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a video conference on the 21st. They agreed to further develop bilateral relations and to exchange visits between the two countries during this year's Victory Day celebrations. Given that discussions took place shortly after the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump, there appears to be an intention to counter the United States.
According to China's state-run Xinhua News Agency, during the video conference with Putin on that afternoon, Xi noted that the Lunar New Year (Spring Festival) was just a few days away and said, "I am very pleased to have a video conference with President Putin during this season of bidding farewell to the old and welcoming the new, and I wish for the flourishing of China-Russia relations in the New Year." Putin also responded, "I am very pleased to have a video exchange with President Xi as the New Year begins, and I wish President Xi and the Chinese people much happiness and success in all endeavors in the New Year."
This communication between the Chinese and Russian leaders took place immediately after Trump's inauguration ceremony. In a situation where Trump's inauguration has emerged as an important variable in the international community, Xi and Putin have reached consensus on further developing bilateral relations. Notably, the two leaders invited each other to this year's Victory Day events. Russia's Victory Day is on May 9, while China's Victory Over Japan Day is on September 3. There is a greater likelihood of at least two in-person meetings this year.
According to the Russian news agency TASS, Putin stated that the relations between Russia and China are based on "friendship, mutual trust and support, equality, and mutual benefit," and added, "This relationship is self-sufficient and not influenced by domestic political factors or global circumstances." He continued, "I agree with your view that the cooperation between Russia and China is based on the convergence of our two countries' national interests and what the relationship between major powers should look like."
He emphasized, "We are working to ensure inseparable security for Eurasia and the entire world," and added, "I can confidently say that the diplomatic relations and joint efforts between Russia and China play a stabilizing role in international issues."
In response, Xi stated that China is prepared to elevate its relationship with Russia to a new level and resist external uncertainties. He said, "We wish to respond to uncertainties in the external environment through the stability and solidness of China-Russia relations, promote the development and rejuvenation of both countries together, and uphold international fairness and justice." He also suggested, "The two countries should continue to deepen strategic cooperation and firmly support each other, as well as safeguard their legitimate interests, and work to strengthen and expand bilateral relations and promote in-depth development of practical cooperation."
Additionally, Xi and Putin found common ground on the unity of the Global South, referring to emerging and developing countries primarily located in the Southern Hemisphere, and issues regarding Taiwan.