China and Russia have agreed to extend their Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation, with Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin pledging to enhance political trust, strategic coordination, and practical cooperation amid global instability. This decision came during Putin’s two-day state visit to China, where the leaders signed a joint statement to deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership and witnessed the signing of 20 cooperation agreements across sectors such as economy, trade, education, and technology. They also advocated for a multipolar world and new international relations, highlighting the importance of their alliance in a changing global landscape.
The meeting marked Putin’s 25th visit to China since he first became president in 2000, illustrating the strong ties between the two nations. This year is significant as it marks the 30th anniversary of the China-Russia strategic partnership and the 25th anniversary of their treaty. Xi emphasized that the relationship has reached historic highs, setting a precedent for a new kind of major-country relations. The treaty’s principles of non-alliance, non-confrontation, and non-targeting of third parties have been upheld, contributing to international fairness and justice.
Economic cooperation between the two countries has been robust, with bilateral trade surpassing $200 billion for three consecutive years. In early 2026, trade increased by nearly 20 percent. Xi called for further alignment between China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and Russia’s development strategy through 2030, aiming to upgrade mutually beneficial cooperation. Both leaders stressed the importance of their roles as permanent members of the UN Security Council in upholding international law and opposing unilateral actions and historical revisionism, advocating for a fair global governance system.
During their talks, Xi and Putin also addressed significant international issues, including the Middle East situation. Xi urged for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the continuation of negotiations, emphasizing the importance of stability in energy supplies and global trade. As part of their strengthened ties, both countries extended their visa-free policies for each other’s citizens until the end of 2027. Putin expressed confidence in the future of Russia-China relations, highlighting their self-sufficiency and potential as a model for international relations.
The visit concluded with a welcoming banquet hosted by Xi for Putin, celebrating the deepening ties between the two nations. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to mutually beneficial cooperation across various fields, including trade, energy, transportation, and innovation, while promoting cultural and educational exchanges to bolster public support for their longstanding friendship. Their partnership aims to serve the development and revitalization of both countries and contribute to global stability and prosperity.