The Kremlin announced President Vladimir Putin's visit to China will take place on 19-20/5. His accompanying delegation includes ministers, top Kremlin officials, and heads of state corporations and banks, including Central Bank Governor Elvira Nabiullina.

President Putin will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. They will hold private and expanded talks on "the most important and sensitive issues" in bilateral relations, and discuss "the most urgent global issues" during a tea reception.

Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in 12/2025. *AFP*

Approximately 40 bilateral agreements are expected to be signed, including a joint declaration on strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. Yury Ushakov, the Russian President's foreign policy assistant, stated that the two leaders are also expected to adopt a separate declaration on promoting a "multipolar world" and a "new type of international relations."

Putin is expected to meet with many Chinese officials, including talks with Prime Minister Li Qiang, focusing on trade and economic issues.

In a video address on 18/5, the Russian leader stated that the friendship between Moscow and Beijing is not directed against anyone, but is aimed at global peace and prosperity.

According to him, Russia-China relations have reached an "unprecedented level" of mutual understanding and trust. The two countries are ready to cooperate based on principles of mutual benefit and equality, supporting each other on "issues affecting core interests, including the protection of sovereignty and national unity."

He emphasized that Russia and China are actively expanding their economic, political, and defense ties, adding that the connection between Moscow and Beijing is playing a "stabilizing role" in global relations.

The Russia-China strategic partnership has been established over 25 years since the two countries signed the Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation.

China is currently Russia's most important ally. Chinese-made electronic components are crucial for Russia's defense industry. As Russia's largest oil customer, China provides a key source of revenue for Russia amidst its economy facing significant pressure due to the Ukraine conflict.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing in 5/2024. *RIA Novosti*

Putin's visit comes a few days after US President Donald Trump's state visit to China. This marks the first time China has hosted leaders of two major powers in one month, reflecting Beijing's efforts to manage relations with both sides and position itself as a central power amid an increasingly divided world order.

Kremlin officials dismissed speculation that the timing of Putin's visit was related to contacts between the US and China, asserting that preparations for the event began immediately after a phone call between the two leaders in 2/2026.

Huyen Le (According to TASS, RT, Reuters)