Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, during a meeting with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Beijing on 13/7, stated, "The relationship between China and Russia is the most stable, mature, and strategically valuable among major powers in the world today".

According to Wang, the current focus of the two countries is to strengthen comprehensive strategic cooperation, promote development and recovery, and jointly address challenges stemming from a volatile world.

Foreign Ministers Lavrov (left) and Wang Yi meet in Beijing on 13/7. Photo: AFP

Foreign Ministers Lavrov (left) and Wang Yi meet in Beijing on 13/7. Photo: AFP

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that the two officials also exchanged views on North Korea, the Ukraine crisis, Iran's nuclear program, and other issues.

Russian officials mentioned that relations with the US were also discussed, but the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not include this in their statement. According to the Russian side, the two diplomats also discussed "hot issues," including the conflict in the Gaza Strip.

China is a key ally of Russia. The two countries declared an "unlimited" partnership in 2/2022 during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Beijing.

Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, Beijing has consistently called for an end to the fighting and promoted peace talks while accusing the West of prolonging the conflict by providing arms to Kyiv.

Lavrov's visit to China followed a trip to North Korea. During talks with Lavrov, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un affirmed his support for Russia's "special military operation" and measures to "address the root causes of the Ukraine conflict".

Kim also expressed "firm belief that Russia will be victorious in protecting the dignity and fundamental interests of the country," and praised President Putin's "outstanding leadership".

Huyen Le (AFP, Reuters)