Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing today, underscoring the strength of their countries’ relationship as the two leaders began a series of high-level meetings.

Addressing Xi as a “dear friend,” President Putin praised the deepening cooperation between Moscow and Beijing, while President Xi described him as an “old friend,” highlighting the warmth of their personal rapport. Both leaders reaffirmed that bilateral ties had reached an “unprecedented level,” even as their nations face mounting tensions with the United States and its allies over issues including the war in Ukraine and Western trade disputes.

The two leaders held formal talks at the Great Hall of the People before continuing discussions in a more informal setting over tea, accompanied by top aides. Their meeting followed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, where they jointly emphasized the bloc’s role as a counterweight to Western-led alliances. President Putin reiterated the need for a global system that moves beyond what he described as “outdated Eurocentric and Euro-Atlantic models.”

According to reports, President Putin is expected to sign up to 20 new agreements with China before concluding his visit, further expanding cooperation in trade, energy, and strategic sectors. Analysts note that the visible solidarity between Xi and Putin demonstrates resilience in their partnership despite criticism from Western powers.