Xi-Putin summit

Understanding the meaning of the dueling trips requires a closer look at the larger context of China and Japan’s recent international diplomatic efforts. 

While Chinese President Xi Jinping was in Moscow, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio made a surprise visit to Kyiv.

Xi will visit Moscow on March 20-22 as speculation grows China is going to push harder for a diplomatic settlement to the war in Ukraine.

China’s position has subtly shifted since the Russian invasion began, but the partnership with Russia is too important for Beijing to truly abandon its ally.

No matter the areas of friction or tactical disagreement, China and Russia share a core worldview that binds them together.

When discussing the convergence of the Russian and Chinese narratives on Ukraine, a striking difference is often overlooked.

Insights from Bonny Lin.

The two leaders reaffirmed the "no limits" friendship between China and Russia in their first in-person meeting since 2019 – but they notably danced around the topic of Ukraine.

The most recent Putin-Xi summit inadvertently showcased the lack of positive agenda items underpinning the two nations' relationship.

Despite strategic convergence, and a public bromance between Putin and Xi, China-Russia economic relations remain underdeveloped.

Other regional leaders have made multiple appearances at the annual event in Vladivostok. This is Xi's first.