MWE Correspondent
Chinese President Xi Jinping received a warm welcome in the Russian capital as he began a four-day state visit to Moscow, underscoring deepening diplomatic and strategic ties between China and Russia.
The visit comes at a pivotal moment, coinciding with preparations for the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, a national holiday in Russia that commemorates the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II.
Xi landed at Vnukovo International Airport and was greeted by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova, along with other senior officials. His arrival, despite recent Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow, symbolizes the importance both nations place on bilateral cooperation.
In a statement ahead of his talks, Xi expressed hope that the visit would “inject new energy” into the China–Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has strengthened significantly in recent years. “I look forward to in-depth discussions with President Vladimir Putin on expanding cooperation in energy, trade, and global security,” Xi said.
A central event during the visit will be Xi’s presence at the 2025 Moscow Victory Day Parade, held annually in Red Square. Xi is expected to stand alongside Putin during the military display, which will showcase Russia’s armed forces and historical legacy.
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High on the agenda are talks on the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, a major energy project intended to transport Russian natural gas to northern China. This reflects the countries’ growing economic interdependence, especially in light of Western sanctions against both nations.
On the streets of Moscow, crowds of Russian citizens and members of the local Chinese community waved flags and carried signs celebrating the “friendship without limits” between the two countries. It was a vivid show of soft diplomacy as well as mutual public support.
Xi’s visit — his 11th trip to Russia as president — signals continuity in Beijing’s foreign policy and strong personal rapport between the two leaders. It also sends a clear message of defiance to Western critics who accuse China of quietly endorsing Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
