Xi, Putin pledge more cooperation in ‘new era’ of China-Russia ties

Xi Jinping: Change is coming that hasn't happened in 100 years. And we are driving this change together.

Putin: I agree.

Xi Jinping: Please, take care, dear friend.

Putin: Have a safe journey! pic.twitter.com/eYdKFkl2PL

— Russians With Attitude (@RWApodcast) March 21, 2023

China and Russia have pledged to work together on a wide range of issues – from Southeast Asia to the Middle East and Latin America – in a demonstration of their global interests amid rising superpower rivalry.

Following their closely watched meeting on Tuesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian leader Vladimir Putin issued a joint statement that ushered in a “new era” of bilateral ties while calling for an expansion of cooperation in various fields.

That includes boosting efforts to work with multilateral frameworks involving India, Mongolia and the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).

“China and Russia will strengthen coordination on deepening cooperation with Asean, and continue to promote Asean centrality in the regional architecture,” the statement said.