China's Xi, in meeting with Putin: China-Russia relations set an example for the relationship between two major powers - pool report

China's Xi, in meeting with Putin: China-Russia relations set an example for the relationship between two major powers - pool report

In recent developments, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have been at the forefront of shaping a new global order, setting an example for relationships between major powers. This dynamic was evident in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit held in Tianjin, China, on September 1, 2025, where Xi hosted over 20 leaders, including Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi [2].

Xi's vision for a new global security and economic order, prioritizing the "Global South," was a direct challenge to the U.S.-led order. He emphasized the need for true multilateralism and criticized the U.S. for its tariff policies [2]. Putin, who has forged closer economic and security ties with China, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the SCO's role in promoting genuine multilateralism [2].

The SCO summit marked a significant step in China-Russia relations, with both leaders pushing for more inclusive economic globalization and an alternative payment system that circumvents the U.S. dollar [2]. Beijing's offer of $280 million in free aid and a further $10 billion in loans to SCO member states, along with plans to build an AI cooperation center, underscored China's commitment to the bloc [2].

The summit also served as an opportunity for Xi to mend ties with Modi, who visited China for the first time in seven years. The two leaders agreed to improve trade relations and discussed ways to enhance their partnership [2]. This meeting comes amidst growing geopolitical tensions and a shifting balance of power in the region.

The visit of Russian President Putin to China, scheduled for September 2025, further solidifies the strategic partnership between the two nations. Putin's first visit since May 2024 is expected to discuss further cooperation and new steps to intensify economic ties [3]. This visit is significant, given the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war and the U.S.'s tariff policies, which have strained relations with Moscow.

The attendance of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at China's military parade on September 3, 2025, is another indicator of the shifting dynamics in nuclear diplomacy. Kim's debut on a multilateral diplomatic stage, backed by his partnership with Putin and Russia, signals a confident stance against the U.S. and its allies [4].

In conclusion, the China-Russia relationship is a model for major power dynamics, characterized by strategic partnerships, economic cooperation, and a shared vision for a new global order. As these nations continue to assert their influence, the geopolitical landscape is likely to see significant shifts in the coming years.

References:
[1] https://www.business-standard.com/companies/news/lt-semiconductor-technologies-eyes-china-market-expansion-125090101331_1.html
[2] https://www.reuters.com/world/china/chinas-xi-pushes-new-global-order-flanked-by-leaders-russia-india-2025-09-01/
[3] https://indianexpress.com/article/world/putin-russia-china-discriminatory-sanctions-global-trade-10220118/
[4] https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/kim-jong-un-s-china-trip-signals-shifting-dynamics-in-nuclear-diplomacy-125082900243_1.html