Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay an official visit to China on 19 and 20 May at the invitation of President Xi Jinping.
According to the Kremlin, the visit coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Treaty of Good‑Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation, which forms the basis of relations between the two countries.
The meeting will focus on bilateral issues, ways to strengthen the partnership and strategic cooperation between Russia and China, as well as key international and regional developments.
The two leaders will also attend the launch ceremony of the Russia‑China Education Years (2026–2027). Following the talks, a joint statement and a series of intergovernmental and interdepartmental agreements are expected to be signed.
Putin is also scheduled to meet Premier Li Qiang to discuss prospects for trade and economic cooperation.
Trump visit in focus
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that preparations for Putin’s trip were underway, noting that the agenda centres primarily on bilateral relations, described as a “privileged strategic partnership”.
The visit comes at a pivotal moment, just weeks after Donald Trump’s visit to China. Peskov said the two leaders will exchange views on Xi’s recent meeting with Trump, adding that Russia hopes to receive first‑hand information during the visit.
First time both US and Russian leaders visit in same month
According to the South China Morning Post, the consecutive visits by Trump and Putin mark the first time that China will host US and Russian leaders for bilateral talks within the same month.
Putin last visited China in September for a regional summit, while his most recent bilateral talks with Xi took place in May 2024, shortly after his re‑election.
Source: cnn.gr
