China's Wang Yi describes Russia as "friends forever, never enemies" during talks in Moscow

Key Concepts

• China-Russia relations: "Friends forever, never enemies"
• Strengthening bilateral ties
• Global climate of uncertainty
• Peaceful resolution of the war in Ukraine
• Negotiated settlement
• Trade relationship between Moscow and Beijing
• Revival of neo-Nazism and militarism
• Defense of the UN's role and international law

China-Russia Relations: "Friends Forever, Never Enemies"

• China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, stated that China and Russia are "friends forever, never enemies." This statement was published in Russian state media during Wang Yi's three-day visit to Moscow.
• Sergei Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Minister, emphasized the importance of Russia-China ties in stabilizing the "global climate of uncertainty."
• Wang Yi reaffirmed the close alignment between the two countries, pledging a joint contribution to peace.
• The relationship is described as the "only constant in the ever-changing world" and not a threat to other countries.

High-Level Talks and Key Agendas

• Wang Yi's visit included a face-to-face meeting with President Vladimir Putin.
• Discussions covered a range of topics, including the conflict in Ukraine, bilateral ties, and trade relationships.
• Both countries see the need to create a barrier against the revival of neo-Nazism and militarism.
• The importance of defending the UN's role and principles of international law was also discussed.

The War in Ukraine and China's Role

• Wang Yi expressed Beijing's desire to play a constructive role in ending the war in Ukraine.
• China is calling for a negotiated settlement and believes it can play a role, along with countries in the Global South.
• The conflict in Ukraine is one of the key issues on the agenda during Wang Yi's visit.

Bilateral Ties and Future Meetings

• Lavrov stated that Russia and China are united not only by historical and military ties and a long border but also by being "tested by time."
• President Xi Jinping is expected to travel to Russia for the 9th of May celebrations, marking the anniversary of victory in World War II.
• A summit between Russia and China is anticipated in May.

Conclusion

Wang Yi's visit to Moscow underscores the strengthening relationship between China and Russia, characterized as "friends forever, never enemies." Discussions focused on a range of global issues, including the war in Ukraine, where China aims to play a constructive role in achieving a negotiated settlement. The visit also highlighted the importance of bilateral ties, trade relationships, and a shared commitment to defending the UN's role and international law. The upcoming summit between President Xi Jinping and President Putin in May signals a continued deepening of this strategic partnership.