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Xi Jinping’s visit to Moscow strengthens the China-Russia partnership, focusing on military and economic cooperation.
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The two leaders aim to shape global governance and oppose Western unilateralism.
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Xi attends Russia’s Victory Day parade, showing support for Putin amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow on Wednesday for an important three-day visit. The visit is significant as it includes a grand Victory Day parade and a strong demonstration of support for Russian President Vladimir Putin. This comes after Russia and China declared a “no limits partnership” in early 2022, right before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The growing military and trade relationship between the two countries has raised concerns in the West, which views the alliance as a challenge to the existing global order.
Rising Tensions Between China and the US
Xi’s visit also takes place amid increasing tensions between China and the United States. The U.S. has imposed strict trade tariffs on China, and former President Donald Trump has engaged with Putin in an attempt to mediate the Ukraine conflict. The shift in global alliances is especially notable as both China and Russia work to assert their influence against what they perceive as Western dominance.
Xi Defends Strong China-Russia Partnership
In a published article for Russia’s Rossiyskaya Gazeta, Xi praised the strong and resilient China-Russia relationship. He emphasized the importance of resisting any external attempts to undermine the bond between the two nations. Xi urged that the countries remain unaffected by temporary events and that they continue to build a shared future for humanity through strategic cooperation. The Kremlin also praised the relationship, highlighting it as a “genuine example” of successful partnership. Putin and Xi are expected to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the state of Russia-US relations during their meetings.
Shaping Global Governance and Opposing Unilateralism
According to China’s foreign ministry, the two leaders aim to rally support from the Global South. They plan to work together to shape global governance in a way that promotes fairness and equality. Their goal is to challenge unilateralism and support the creation of a multipolar world, where no single nation dominates. This partnership signals a shift toward a more balanced global power structure, where China and Russia aim to push back against Western influence.
Xi as Guest of Honour at Victory Day Parade
One of the key moments of Xi’s visit is his role as the guest of honor at Moscow’s Victory Day parade on May 9. The parade marks the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. This celebration aims to rally support for Russian troops currently fighting in Ukraine. Xi will join 29 other foreign leaders at the parade, including representatives from partially recognized or non-recognized states. Putin has ordered a three-day ceasefire on the frontlines to coincide with the event. However, Ukraine dismissed the ceasefire, seeing it as a move to ensure the safety of the parade rather than a genuine attempt at peace.
Foreign Participation in the Parade Draws Criticism
Ukraine has raised concerns about foreign troops taking part in the parade, calling it “unacceptable.” The country argues that allowing foreign troops to join Moscow’s celebrations will help Russia “whitewash its war crimes.” China has sent the largest foreign military contingent of 102 soldiers, showing strong support for Putin. This participation highlights the deepening ties between the two nations, especially in military cooperation.
Russia’s World War II Legacy and National Pride
In Russia, May 9 holds deep national significance as the “Great Patriotic War” victory day. The Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany resulted in over 20 million military and civilian deaths. Putin has often tapped into this national trauma, positioning the army as the protectors against fascism. This day has become Russia’s most important public holiday, and Putin uses it to rally support for his government and justify the military campaign in Ukraine. The Kremlin draws parallels between the current conflict and the fight against Nazi forces, portraying it as a continuation of the defense against fascism.
China’s Neutral Stance on the Ukraine Conflict
China has largely maintained a neutral stance on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It has called for peace talks and diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis. However, Western governments have criticized China’s close relationship with Russia, arguing that it gives Moscow crucial economic and diplomatic backing. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky accused China of supplying arms to Russia and claimed that Beijing was aware of Chinese nationals fighting alongside Russian forces. China has denied these claims, urging its citizens not to engage in the conflict and insisting that it does not supply weapons to either side.
Strong Economic Ties Between China and Russia
Over the past decade, China and Russia have strengthened their economic ties. China has become Russia’s largest trading partner, primarily focused on natural gas and oil supplies. However, Russia remains only China’s fifth-largest trading partner overall. Despite this, the economic relationship has been growing stronger, especially since the West imposed sanctions on Russia. In response to the sanctions, Chinese companies quickly moved in to fill the void left by Western companies, particularly in the auto industry.
The Impact of Western Sanctions on Russia’s Economy
The sanctions imposed by Western countries after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have significantly impacted Russia’s economy. Many Western companies exited Russia, creating a void in various sectors. Chinese companies have stepped in to fill this gap, particularly in industries like the automotive sector. This shift has deepened the economic cooperation between China and Russia, making their partnership even more vital to both nations’ economies.
