At the meeting in Beijing, Xi and Putin reminisced about past encounters captured in an exhibition. Putin described the relationship as better than ever, while Xi spoke of a new phase in Sino-Russian relations marked by greater successes and rapid, stable, high-quality development. Both shared the goal of advancing this development.
Like US President Trump the previous week, Putin received the full protocol treatment: military honors, anthems, red carpet, and cheering children. Unlike Trump’s visit, this time there was a joint statement and around 40 signed agreements, though most are letters of intent. The most important project from Russia’s perspective—a new gas pipeline from Siberia to northern China—remained without an agreement.
Since Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and Western sanctions, Russia has been supplying oil and gas primarily to China and has become economically heavily dependent on the People’s Republic. Putin only stated generally that Russia is one of the largest exporters of crude oil, natural gas, and coal to China and is ready to reliably ensure supply to the rapidly growing Chinese market. However, a concrete breakthrough in the pipeline negotiations did not materialize.
On the geopolitical level, the two countries support each other: Russia reaffirmed that Taiwan is part of China. China continued to refrain from condemning Russia’s attack on Ukraine and continues its business with Moscow despite Western sanctions. Xi and Putin also voiced clear criticism of the US and Israel for their attack on Iran.
EuroPulse reported on May 20, 2026, on Putin’s visit to Beijing and the lack of agreement on the gas pipeline: Putin in Beijing: China shows no interest in Russian victory.
Source: Tagesschau
