Putin: Russia-China relations are getting better, not to fight anyone

Chinese President Xi Jinping with Russian President Vladimir Putin/DOK Office of the President of Russia

JAKARTA - The Russian president said relations between Moscow and Beijing had reached "a level that has never been reached before", while stressing that the relationship "is not against anyone".

In a video statement ahead of his visit to Beijing, Putin said Russia and China were committed to expanding cooperation in the political, economic, defense, and humanitarian exchanges, as a statement released by the TASS news agency, Tuesday, May 19, reported ANTARA.

"Our friendship is not directed against anyone," Putin said, stressing that China-Russia relations are based on mutual understanding and mutual trust and support for common core interests, including in terms of sovereignty and national unity.

The Russian president said his visit to Beijing was made at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, whom he called an "old friend".

He also considered it important for high-level meetings to be held regularly to deepen bilateral relations.

According to Putin, Russia and China have fostered a "true strategic relationship and comprehensive partnership" after the signing of the Treaty of Good Neighborliness and Friendship Cooperation 25 years ago.

"This special situation is reflected in the nuances of mutual understanding and trust, a commitment to realizing mutually beneficial and fair cooperation, conducting a mutually respectful dialogue, and supporting each other in matters related to the core interests of each country," said Putin.

He welcomed the increase in economic cooperation reflected in bilateral trade with a value exceeding 200 billion US dollars and with transactions that are entirely carried out "in rubles and yuan currencies".

The Russian President appreciated the implementation of a joint visa-free policy that would spur tourism, business visits, and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

Moscow highly values China's history and culture and seeks to deepen cultural and humanitarian ties between the two countries, Putin said.