Xi and Putin Set to Deepen Economic Ties

Author: Editors Desk Source: WSJ:

March 21, 2023 at 07:34

Leaders Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin share close personal ties. PHOTO: SERGEI KARPUKHIN/AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE/GETTY IMAGES

Beijing has portrayed itself as a potential peacemaker on Ukraine, but its close relationship with Moscow has been on display during visit.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin were set to meet for a second day in Moscow on Tuesday, strengthening economic and political ties between the two neighbors as the war in Ukraine loomed over the two leaders’ 40th in-person meeting.

Mr. Xi came into the trip seeking to cast himself as a potential peacemaker in the Ukraine war, even as Mr. Putin demonstrates his determination to carry on the fighting.

On Monday, the first day of Mr. Xi’s three-day visit, the two leaders focused on something they could both agree on—the importance of strengthening their commitment to one another.

“The bilateral relationship has grown more mature and resilient,” Mr. Xi said in brief comments before one-on-one talks on Monday. “It is brimming with new dynamism and vitality.”

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