Putin–Xi Jinping Moment in Beijing, Discussing Three Key Points

Russian President Vladimir Putin shook hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a meeting at the Great Hall of the People, Beijing, China, on Wednesday, 20 May 2026. (Sputnik/Maxim Stulov/Pool via Reuters) The meeting between Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin was to discuss three main points, including Moscow’s expected push for stronger energy ties. (Reuters/Maxim Shemetov/Pool) President Xi Jinping welcomed President Vladimir Putin with a guard of honour and a volley salute at the Great Hall of the People, as children waved flags of China and Russia. In addition to formal talks, the two are expected to end the day with an informal tea gathering. (Reuters/Maxim Shemetov/Pool) Xi said the two countries must focus on a long-term strategy and promote a global governance system that is ‘more just and reasonable,’ according to the Chinese state news agency cited by Reuters. (Reuters/Maxim Shemetov/Pool) ‘The reason the China-Russia relationship has reached this level is because we have been able to deepen political trust and strategic cooperation,’ Xi said at the start of his meeting with Putin. Putin said their relationship helps to ensure global stability and stressed that Russia remains a reliable energy supplier amid turmoil in the Middle East. (Reuters/Maxim Shemetov/Pool) ‘Even amid external factors that are not in our favour, our cooperation and economic ties continue to show healthy dynamics,’ Putin said, adding that he has invited Xi to visit Russia next year. (Reuters/Maxim Shemetov/Pool) Russia now finds itself in a position where it very much needs concrete support from Beijing amid the economic isolation of Western countries. Through this high-level meeting, Putin hoped to secure tangible commitments from Chinese President Xi Jinping. (Reuters/Maxim Shemetov/Pool)