In a significant diplomatic development, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to extend the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation. This accord, reached during talks at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, underscores their commitment to bolstering political trust, strategic coordination, and practical cooperation amid global uncertainties. The discussions culminated with the signing of a joint statement aimed at enhancing comprehensive strategic coordination and deepening the friendly ties between the two nations. Notably, the leaders witnessed the signing of 20 cooperation documents spanning the fields of economy, trade, education, and science and technology.
This year marks both the 30th anniversary of the China-Russia strategic partnership of coordination and the 25th anniversary of the treaty’s initial signing, with the last extension occurring in June 2021. President Xi highlighted the high level and unique nature of China-Russia relations, emphasizing that these ties have reached historical heights as a comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era. He called for building upon past successes, urging both nations to support each other on core interests, maintain strategic communication, and fortify political trust. The bilateral trade between the two countries has exceeded $200 billion for three consecutive years, with a nearly 20 percent increase in two-way trade during the first four months of 2026.
In their joint statement, China and Russia advocated for a multipolar world and a new type of international relations, while opposing unilateralism and hegemonism. Xi and Putin pledged to uphold international fairness and justice, and resist any attempts to reverse historical outcomes, such as those of World War II. They also expressed a commitment to building a more equitable global governance system. The discussions touched upon major international and regional issues, including the volatile situation in the Middle East. Xi stressed the importance of ending hostilities and continuing negotiations to stabilize energy supplies and international trade.
President Putin, who described Xi as a “dear friend,” echoed the sentiment that Russia-China relations have reached an unprecedented level, independent of the global context. He expressed confidence in the future of bilateral ties and emphasized their potential to serve as an exemplar for international relations. Putin reiterated Russia’s commitment to deepening the partnership and good-neighborly friendship with China, with a focus on strengthening people-to-people bonds and contributing to mutual development and well-being. Both countries have agreed to extend visa-free travel arrangements until the end of 2027, enhancing the ease of movement between their citizens.
As permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, Xi and Putin emphasized their responsibility to uphold the UN’s authority and international law. They pledged effective cooperation within international frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS to address pressing global challenges. With a focus on national development and revitalization, both leaders committed to upgrading cooperation in trade, investment, energy, and innovation, while exploring new frontiers in their partnership. They also emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges to consolidate public support for their enduring friendship.