2024 marks 75 years of diplomatic relations between Russia and China — and this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin kicked off his new presidential term with a high-stakes visit to Beijing and Harbin. The trip, packed with meetings and symbolic gestures, highlighted the deepening 'no-limits' partnership between the two global powers. 🌍✨
A Friendship Forged in Tea and Strategy
Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who’ve met over 40 times since 2013, showcased their close rapport with lengthy private talks and a joint stroll through Zhongnanhai. Their discussions ranged from energy deals to resolving the Ukraine crisis, with Xi sharing insights from his recent Europe trip. ☕️🇺🇦
Powering Up: Energy Takes Center Stage
Russia is China’s top oil supplier, shipping 107 million tons in 2023 (up 24%!). Now, both sides are doubling down:
🚀 Power of Siberia 2 pipeline: Slated to deliver 50B cubic meters of gas/year via Mongolia.
🛢️ New oil pipeline routes under review, including a Mongolia corridor.
Building a 'Fairer World Order'
The leaders signed a sweeping joint statement vowing to shape a multipolar global system. With trade hitting $240B in 2023, their alliance isn’t just symbolic — it’s reshaping energy markets and geopolitics. 📈🌐
