In a pivotal diplomatic engagement, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Beijing during the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) talks. This meeting underscores the growing collaboration between China and Russia amid increasing pressures from Western powers.
Strengthening Mutual Support
During their discussions, Xi emphasised the importance of “strengthening mutual support” between the two nations in multilateral forums. According to China’s state news agency Xinhua, Xi stated that both countries should work together to unite nations in the global South and promote a more equitable international order.
Key Meetings at the SCO
- Xi held a key meeting with foreign ministers from the SCO member states.
- Lavrov’s visit followed his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Wonsan.
- The discussions included preparations for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to China.
Global Tensions and Responses
The meeting comes as relations between Russia and the United States have soured, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Just hours before, US President Donald Trump issued a warning to Russia about potential severe tariffs if it doesn’t address the conflict within a 50-day timeline. In response, China has condemned such coercive measures, asserting that they won’t resolve the ongoing tensions.
Continued Military Cooperation with North Korea
Meanwhile, Lavrov’s earlier discussions in North Korea highlighted a flourishing relationship between the two nations. They have reportedly formed a mutual defence pact amid the ongoing crisis. North Korea has even sent troops to Russia to support military efforts against Ukraine, and reports suggest they are preparing to send more military engineers for reconstruction efforts in Russia’s Kursk region.
A New Era of Diplomacy
As Xi noted, political mutual trust among SCO members has evidently deepened. The SCO presents itself as a model for a new type of international relations—one that resists Western hegemony and embraces regional cooperation.
The dynamics of these interactions highlight a significant shift in global power relations, as China and Russia assert their positions against Western influence. The coming months could reveal how these alliances will shape future international policies and responses.