Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrives in Russia on Wednesday. His three-day visit is expected to include signing of new trade deals and investment pledges, alongside joint rhetorical sallies against what they see as US over-reach.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping have struck up a warm friendship that defies decades of mistrust between their two countries amid trade war and tensions with US, Financial Times writes.
Last week, China's deputy foreign minister Zhang Hanhui called Mr Xi's visit to Russia a “milestone” that would “solidify the foundations” of the relationship. “The close and effective co-ordination of Russia and China on international affairs . . . has been an anchor and stabilising force amid rapid changes in the international situation,” he said.
The summit is expected to result in further co-operation in the energy, aviation and communications sectors, as well as in new areas such as agriculture, finance, technology and e-commerce, Mr Zhang said, without providing details.
Bilateral trade rose 24.5 per cent last year to hit a record $108bn, surpassing forecasts. Chinese officials say they are aiming for $200bn.