Politician · country

Xi Jinping on Russia

Strategic partner (strong)

TL;DR

Xi Jinping views Russia as an essential strategic partner whose close relationship is a stabilizing factor globally.

Key Points

  • He affirmed readiness to strengthen comprehensive energy cooperation with Russia to safeguard global energy supply chains in November 2025.

  • The leader visited Russia in March 2023, signing a joint declaration on deepening comprehensive strategic collaboration and partnership for the new era.

  • During a February 2026 video call, he agreed with the Russian President to chart an ambitious new course for bilateral relations at the start of the lunar new year.

Summary

Xi Jinping consistently champions a deepening comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation with Russia, emphasizing that the bond between the two nations is a crucial stabilizing factor amid turbulent international conditions. He has framed this relationship as a shared strategic choice, often seeking to solidify agreements in areas like energy, trade, and high-tech collaboration, even when facing Western pressure regarding the conflict in Ukraine. His interactions, including high-level meetings and video calls with his counterpart, reinforce a commitment to jointly shoulder major country responsibilities and promote a more equitable global governance system.

This positive trajectory has been marked by significant bilateral events, such as jointly commemorating historical anniversaries and implementing agreements like visa-free travel, which enhances people-to-people exchanges. While public statements on specific controversial international issues may sometimes be nuanced, the overarching policy is one of unwavering mutual support on core national interests, which includes upholding each country's right to choose its own development path free from external interference. The continued high-level contact underscores a dedication to strengthening ties across various sectors for mutual benefit and strategic alignment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Xi Jinping currently views Russia as an essential strategic partner, consistently aiming to deepen comprehensive cooperation between the two nations. He emphasizes that their close relationship acts as a major stabilizing factor in the face of global turbulence. This positive alignment is evident in ongoing high-level exchanges and commitments to strategic coordination.

The overall positive direction of the China-Russia relationship under Xi Jinping has been consistent, with efforts to deepen ties evident in recent years. However, the practical focus of cooperation evolves, such as enhancing energy partnerships and trade despite external pressures. The fundamental strategic alignment remains strong.

In a February 2026 call, Xi Jinping described the day as symbolic for charting an ambitious new course for the advancement of bilateral relations. He stressed the need to continue deepening strategic coordination and jointly shouldering major country responsibilities. This reinforced the view of Russia as a key partner.

Sources7

* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.