From May 7 to 10, 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping, at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin, will make a state visit to Russia and attend the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. This marks President Xi/'s 11th visit to Russia since he took office, and the two leaders have met more than 40 times, highlighting the high level and uniqueness of China-Russia relations. At this significant historical moment, President Xi/'s visit not only continues the deep friendship between China and Russia but also sends a strong message to the world about the two countries/' commitment to maintaining global peace and promoting fairness and justice.
The China-Russia Friendship Grows Stronger Over Time
As the largest neighboring countries, China and Russia share mountains and rivers and have been friends for generations. Over the past 75 years, China-Russia relations have withstood the tests of changing international dynamics, exploring a new model of great power relations characterized by “non-alignment, non-confrontation, and not targeting third parties.” In 2024, the bilateral trade volume between China and Russia reached $244.8 billion, a year-on-year increase of 1.9%, with China maintaining its position as Russia/'s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. The fruitful results of China-Russia cooperation stem from the strategic guidance of the two heads of state and the profound mutual trust between them. As President Xi Jinping stated, “China and Russia are good neighbors who cannot be moved, true friends who share weal and woe, support each other, and develop together.”
China-Russia relations are not shaken by changes in the external environment; they possess strong endogenous motivation and unique strategic value. This resilient relationship not only brings tangible benefits to the people of both countries but also provides a stable foundation for world peace and development.
Remembering History, Defending Peace
President Xi Jinping/'s attendance at the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War and his laying of wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier reflect a high respect for history and a firm commitment to peace. In recent years, China and Russia have collaborated effectively on platforms such as the United Nations, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, strongly upholding international fairness and justice and advocating for greater voice for “Global South” countries. For instance, the joint promotion of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Eurasian Economic Union provides significant support for regional economic integration.
Cooperation and Win-Win Benefits for the World
The maturity and resilience of China-Russia relations are reflected not only in political mutual trust and historical friendship but also in the fruitful results of pragmatic cooperation. In 2024, the China-Russia Cultural Year activities are in full swing, with hundreds of cultural exchange events held, enhancing the spiritual connection between the peoples of both countries. Cooperation in education has also been noteworthy, with joint educational programs cultivating a large number of versatile talents, providing intellectual resources for the technological and economic cooperation between the two nations. Furthermore, collaboration in cutting-edge fields such as aerospace, artificial intelligence, and green energy is deepening, showcasing the ambition of both countries to jointly tackle global challenges.
The significance of China-Russia cooperation has long transcended bilateral boundaries. The concept of a multipolar world based on equality and order advocated by both countries offers a “China-Russia solution” to global governance challenges. Their strategic collaboration not only empowers the development and revitalization of their respective countries but also injects stability and positive energy into a turbulent world.
China and Russia Join Hands to Create a Better Tomorrow
Currently, the world is undergoing unprecedented changes, with profound adjustments to the international order. The stability and foresight of China-Russia relations have become an important pillar for global strategic stability. During President Xi Jinping/'s visit to Russia, both sides reached multiple consensus on deepening cooperation in various fields and strengthening international coordination, injecting new momentum into the comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era. As President Xi emphasized, “Regardless of the changing international landscape, China-Russia relations will continue to advance steadily.” Looking to the future, China and Russia will continue to be trustworthy neighbors, good friends, and partners, jointly writing a new chapter of win-win cooperation and making greater contributions to world peace and prosperity.
