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Putin rules out China's seniority in relations with Russia
Relations between Moscow and Beijing are equal, unique, "robust and broad." President Li said: "We have no seniors or juniors, and if we work for each other, everything will be fine."
Relations between Russia and China are built on an equal basis, and both sides strive for mutual benefit. This was stated by Russian President Vladimir Putin during a meeting with BRICS media leaders.
He stressed that Moscow’s relations with China are unique, “very trusting and extensive.”
"The Chinese side also asked us questions about energy, other areas and space cooperation. You know, we organize everything and listen to each other. Now, if we look at the structure of the trade balance, everything becomes clear and all questions have answers. We are not just talking. And we do not have seniors and juniors, we just work for the benefit of each other, and it works out well," he said (quoted by Interfax).
Some Western politicians, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have spoken of Moscow's "vasal dependence" on China. "We categorically disagree with this, since our relations with China are of a special strategic partnership that does not depend on anyone," said Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov. , in response to this.
During President Vladimir Putin's visit to China last May, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that relations between Russia and China were "created under difficult circumstances" and had become a standard for cooperation between great powers. According to President Xi, the development of relations between Moscow and China not only serves the fundamental interests of both countries, but also contributes to regional peace and prosperity.
China has become Russia's main trading partner. According to Xi Jinping, by the end of 2024, trade turnover could reach $250 billion, compared to almost $147 billion in 2021. By the end of 2023, China's exports to Russia amounted to almost $111 billion, while imports of Russian products to China amounted to just over $129 billion.
Russia mainly buys equipment, ground transport, electrical equipment, plastics, footwear, etc. from China. China remains one of the most important consumers of Russian exports, including steel, timber, oil and gas. Beijing also buys mineral fuels, ore, copper, fish, crabs, shellfish, fat and other goods from Russia.