Summary
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Beijing to strengthen the strategic partnership between China and Russia. Xi emphasized the importance of their relationship amid global uncertainty and suggested they protect their shared interests and support countries in the Global South.
Key Facts
- Xi Jinping and Sergey Lavrov met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
- Xi called China-Russia relations “precious” and stressed stronger strategic coordination.
- Xi urged defense of their legitimate interests and support for Global South unity.
- The meeting appeared to reference tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has mostly closed to shipping amid the US-Israel war on Iran.
- The Strait of Hormuz closure disrupts global energy supplies, affecting about 20% of the world’s oil and gas exports.
- Lavrov said Russia can help compensate for China’s energy shortages caused by the blockade.
- China and Russia are close partners but not formal military allies; in 2022, Xi and Putin signed a “no limits” strategic partnership.
- Lavrov’s visit included discussions on the Middle East conflict, ongoing Ukraine war, and other geopolitical issues.
