Xi and Putin assume the roles of peace negotiators.
The impending visit of Russia's president to China is causing a buzz of anticipation. Despite this, it seems highly unlikely that Beijing will be able to sway Russia to call off its invasion of Ukraine and ease tensions - even if both parties display a desire for dialogue.
During his time in Beijing, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his gratitude to his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, for efforts to resolve the Ukraine standoff. He pledged to brief Xi on the latest developments in Ukraine. Just a few days prior, the Russian military launched fresh assaults in northeastern Ukraine and, according to their claims, seized several villages in the vicinity of Kharkiv, Ukraine's second largest city. Xi replied by voicing the hope that Europe would soon regain peace and stability. He stated that China would contribute to a constructive solution. Putin traveled with a high-ranking entourage, including the newly appointed Defense Minister Andrei Beloussov and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, as well as representatives of some major Russian businesses.
"We appreciate the efforts of our Chinese colleagues and friends to address the situation," stated Putin. When it comes to its backing of Russia after the Ukraine aggression, China wields substantial clout. It consistently supplies Russia with essential weapons manufacturing components. Additionally, Chinese purchases of Russian oil and gas have bolstered the Russian economy.
Before their discussions, Putin and Xi signed a statement affirming their intention to intensify the strategic partnership between their two nations. Xi emphasized that China and Russia would keep up their stance of non-alliance and non-confrontation.
During the morning, Putin received a military welcome in front of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. At their subsequent meeting, Xi congratulated Putin on being re-elected for a fifth term. He also mentioned the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the Soviet Union and the People's Republic of China.
As per a report by Chinese state TV station CCTV, Xi reiterated his support for closer relations between the two countries. The Chinese president thus reaffirmed his dedication to the relationship, which both sides had defined in writing shortly before Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The Russian news agency RIA-Novosti cited Putin as saying that Russia and China's relationship was not aimed at others. "Our cooperation on global affairs is a significant stabilizing force in the international community today," he said. Putin praised Xi's "New Silk Road" initiative, which seeks to construct infrastructure linking China to its neighboring countries.
Beijing: No change in stance
Before his trip, Putin stated in an interview to Chinese media that Russia is open to dialogue on Ukraine. "We are open to discussions on Ukraine, but any negotiations must factor in the interests of all parties involved, including ours," Xinhua quoted Putin as saying.
Since the large-scale invasion of Ukraine over two years ago, Russia's reliance on China has grown economically. Beijing has maintained that it will maintain neutrality in the conflict. Xi clarified that China's stance on this matter has "always been clear." This stance includes "recognizing the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations" as well as "acknowledging the legitimate security concerns of all parties."
In reality, China's leadership has backed Moscow's assertions that the West provoked Russia into invading Ukraine. Meanwhile, Putin has openly stated his intention to reestablish Russia's historical borders. Experts view this as the primary reason for his attack.
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- Despite China's neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict, the country continues to provide essential weapons manufacturing components to Russia, thereby strengthening Moscow's capabilities.
- In light of Russia's dependence on China for gas supplies and oil purchases, Beijing's support has significantly bolstered the Russian economy during this period of international tension.
- During their discussions, President Xi Jinping voiced his hope for Europe's peace and stability, emphasizing China's commitment to contributing to a constructive solution for the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, involving both Russia and Ukraine.
Source: www.ntv.de
