Russia has pledged its full support for China’s upcoming hosting of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, as affirmed during a meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Baku, Azerbaijan. The meeting, held on Wednesday, was focused on enhancing bilateral relations, multilateral cooperation, and addressing key international and regional issues.
Wang Yi highlighted the strategic direction provided by the productive meetings between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin in May and August, which have contributed to the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Russia. Wang expressed confidence that with Russia’s backing, China’s year as the APEC host would yield positive outcomes, strengthening regional cooperation and promoting economic development in the Asia-Pacific region.
During their discussions, Wang also underscored the importance of China-Russia cooperation within multilateral organizations, including the United Nations and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia. He emphasized these efforts as crucial for promoting multilateralism and improving global governance.
Sergei Lavrov reiterated the continuing development of relations between Moscow and Beijing across various sectors, which he said serves the fundamental interests of both nations. Lavrov confirmed Russia’s support for China’s role as APEC host and expressed Moscow’s desire to enhance coordination with Beijing through international platforms such as the United Nations, G20, APEC, and BRICS.
The meeting also included an exchange of views on upcoming high-level diplomatic engagements and regional and international challenges. This dialogue reflects ongoing efforts by China and Russia to deepen their strategic coordination and strengthen cooperation on global economic and political issues.