In a significant diplomatic development, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have decided to extend the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation, as announced during their meeting in Beijing on Wednesday. This decision underscores the two nations’ commitment to enhancing political mutual trust and strategic coordination amidst a global landscape marked by volatility and uncertainty. The talks, held at the Great Hall of the People, coincided with Putin’s two-day state visit to China, culminating in the signing of a joint statement aimed at bolstering comprehensive strategic coordination and fostering good-neighborliness between these two powerful nations.
The high-level discussions resulted in the signing of 20 cooperation documents covering areas such as the economy, trade, education, and science and technology. The leaders also issued a joint statement advocating for a multipolar world and a new type of international relations. President Xi highlighted the significance of Putin’s 25th visit to China since taking office in 2000, emphasizing the unique and robust nature of China-Russia relations. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the China-Russia strategic partnership of coordination, a milestone that Xi described as an example of a new type of major-country relations.
Emphasizing the longstanding principles of non-alliance, nonconfrontation, and non-targeting of third parties, Xi reiterated the importance of equality, mutual respect, and win-win cooperation as cornerstones of the treaty. The two countries, Xi asserted, have played pivotal roles in promoting international fairness and justice, offering stability amid global changes not seen in a century. Both leaders have expressed a shared vision for building on past achievements, with a focus on maintaining close strategic communication and deepening political mutual trust.
Bilateral cooperation has seen considerable growth in recent years, with trade between China and Russia surpassing $200 billion annually for three consecutive years. In the first four months of 2026 alone, trade increased by nearly 20 percent, according to customs data. Xi called for further alignment of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan with Russia’s development strategy through 2030, aiming to upgrade their mutually beneficial cooperation. He emphasized the need for China and Russia to fulfill their responsibilities as major countries, uphold the authority of the United Nations, and oppose unilateral actions and historical revisionism.
During the visit, Putin expressed his confidence in the future of Russia-China relations, highlighting their self-sufficiency and resilience amid international challenges. He emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people bonds and contributing to the development and revitalization of both nations. Additionally, both countries announced the extension of visa-free policies for each other’s citizens until December 31, 2027. The leaders also discussed pressing international issues, including the situation in the Middle East, advocating for an immediate end to hostilities and a focus on negotiations to stabilize the region. A welcoming banquet was held on Wednesday evening, marking a ceremonial conclusion to Putin’s visit.