BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping has renewed his call for an immediate end to fighting in the Middle East, saying the region is at a “critical crossroads between war and peace,” .
He made the remarks during high-level talks in Beijing with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where both leaders highlighted growing strategic cooperation between their countries. The meeting comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf and increased global attention on shifting geopolitical alliances.
Xi welcomed Putin at the Great Hall of the People with full ceremonial honors, including a guard of honor and gun salute. The two leaders are also expected to hold informal discussions over tea, a setting often used in Chinese diplomacy to signal closeness and trust.
The summit follows recent high-profile visits to Beijing by world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, drawing attention to China’s growing diplomatic visibility on the global stage.
During the talks, Xi stressed the importance of long-term strategic planning and called for a more “just and balanced” system of global governance. He credited deep political trust and cooperation for the strong state of China-Russia relations.
Putin, in response, said the partnership contributes to global stability and reaffirmed Russia’s role as a dependable energy supplier despite disruptions linked to Middle East tensions. He also noted that economic ties between the two countries continue to develop steadily.
The Russian leader extended an invitation for Xi to visit Russia next year. Both sides are expected to sign numerous agreements and issue a joint statement outlining their expanding cooperation.
Trade and energy cooperation remain central to the agenda, with discussions likely touching on major infrastructure projects such as the proposed Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, which would increase Russian gas supplies to China.
While bilateral trade has grown significantly in recent years, officials acknowledge some recent fluctuations, with both sides aiming to strengthen long-term economic stability. Energy security, sanctions pressures, and shifting global markets continue to shape their partnership.
Observers say the summit reflects not only deepening China-Russia ties but also both countries’ efforts to project influence in an increasingly fragmented global order.
