Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned that the world risks returning to the law of the jungle during a summit with Vladimir Putin in Beijing, where the two leaders agreed to extend a key bilateral cooperation treaty. The meeting saw both heads of state exchange warm words regarding their nations' relationship, with a focus on deepening strategic ties.
Treaty Extension and Global Warning
On Wednesday, Mr Xi and Mr Putin formally agreed to prolong their extensive bilateral pact, the Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation. Mr Xi emphasised the treaty's continued relevance in a rapidly changing global landscape, stating: "Today, the international landscape is undergoing momentous changes and the world risks returning to the law of the jungle."
Joint Opposition to Bullying
The Chinese leader further told reporters that China and Russia should collectively resist "all unilateral bullying and actions that reverse history," pledging broader collaboration in AI and technological innovation. Moscow is also anticipated to push for stronger energy links as part of the discussions.
Mutual Praise and Future Cooperation
Both leaders lauded the progress in their strategic alliance. Mr Putin described the talks as "substantial," asserting his goal to "enhance the well-being of... Russians and Chinese people" and calling the partnership "exemplary." Mr Xi declared that China and Russia's relations had "entered a new stage progress" with a "foundation of mutual trust... growing stronger." He vowed to "unswervingly promote long-term, healthy and stable development," while Mr Putin assured his counterpart of continued joint efforts on international platforms.
Energy and Technology Focus
The summit also highlighted energy cooperation, with the 2,600km gas pipeline from Russia to China being a key topic. Putin hopes this pipeline will help rescue Russia's stalling economy. Additionally, both nations agreed to enhance collaboration in artificial intelligence and technological innovation, signalling a shift towards high-tech partnerships.
