On May 20, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a summit in Beijing, where they signed a joint statement on strengthening comprehensive strategic cooperation and deepening friendly ties. Putin visited China for two days starting May 19, and both leaders attended the opening ceremony of the 2026-2027 'China-Russia Year of Education.'
Security Cooperation Aimed at the U.S.
The core focus of the China-Russia partnership is its long-term sustainability. Both countries emphasized that this year marks the 30th anniversary of their strategic partnership and the 25th anniversary of the 'China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation.' They agreed to extend the treaty, stating that their relationship is characterized by non-alignment, non-confrontation, and not targeting third countries. However, the statement included language that appeared directed at the U.S. and the West regarding security, economic, and regional issues.
The language targeting the U.S. was particularly strong. The statement declared opposition to “hegemonism and unilateralism,” as well as to unilateral and secondary sanctions, discriminatory tariffs, and restrictive measures. It also criticized actions that freeze, seize, or divert the national assets of other countries, interpreted as a reference to Western moves to use frozen Russian assets for aid to Ukraine and the U.S.-led sanctions regime.
In the security domain, the statement directly criticized the U.S. 'Golden Dome' missile defense initiative. China and Russia argued that this plan, which combines ground and space-based defense systems, undermines strategic balance and increases the risk of an arms race in space. They effectively defined the U.S.-led next-generation missile defense system as a common security threat to both nations.
Military cooperation was also specifically outlined. The two countries agreed to enhance mutual trust in military affairs and improve their cooperation framework. They committed to expanding joint exercises and naval and air patrols, as well as strengthening security coordination within bilateral and multilateral frameworks.
Unified Stance on Taiwan, Ukraine, and Middle East Issues
On the Taiwan issue, Russia fully supported China's position, reaffirming its commitment to the One China principle and stating that “Taiwan is an inseparable part of Chinese territory.” Russia opposed any form of “Taiwan independence” and expressed support for China's national unification efforts. China, in turn, affirmed its support for Russia's national security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
Regarding the Ukraine war, the statement echoed Russian claims, asserting that the “root causes of the Ukraine crisis must be addressed” and emphasizing the need for “long-term and sustainable peace.” Russia praised China for taking an “objective and fair stance” on the Ukraine issue.
The joint statement also addressed Northeast Asian issues, criticizing NATO's expansion into the Asia-Pacific and the AUKUS security pact involving the U.S., the U.K., and Australia. On the Korean Peninsula, they opposed diplomatic isolation, economic sanctions, and military pressure on North Korea, calling for a political and diplomatic resolution.
In the Middle East, the statement directly criticized the U.S. and Israel, stating that “the military attacks by the U.S. and Israel against Iran violate international law and fundamental principles of international relations, undermining stability in the Middle East.” They called for a sustainable ceasefire and humanitarian access in Gaza and emphasized that the Palestinian issue should be resolved based on a two-state solution.
Expanding Economic Cooperation in Response to Sanctions; Gas Pipeline Agreement Fails
In the economic sphere, the focus was on responding to sanctions and stabilizing supply chains. The two nations agreed to expand cooperation in sectors such as automotive, shipping, civil aviation, digital economy, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and mineral development. They also committed to increasing transactions in their national currencies and enhancing cooperation in banking and capital markets.
Energy cooperation was also a major agenda item. Both countries agreed to strengthen collaboration in oil, gas, coal, civilian nuclear power, and renewable energy, ensuring stable operation of energy transport networks. However, the anticipated major gas pipeline project, 'Power of Siberia 2,' did not reach a final agreement. The Kremlin stated that there was a broad consensus, but key conditions such as pricing and timelines remain unresolved.
Norms for AI and space cooperation were also included in their strategic partnership. They stated their opposition to using AI as a geopolitical tool for maintaining hegemony. Russia welcomed China's proposal to establish a global AI cooperation organization. In the space sector, they agreed to promote international lunar research bases and deep space exploration cooperation, as well as enhance the integration of the BeiDou and GLONASS satellite navigation systems.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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