Xi Jinping, Putin advocate 'political solution' to Ukraine war

During talks between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, both leaders concurred on the imperative for a "political solution" to the conflict in Ukraine. Meeting in Beijing during the Russian president's visit, the two heads of state also signed a joint declaration.

In a press conference aired by Russian media, Xi said,"Both sides agree that a political solution to the Ukraine crisis is the correct direction."This comes as West is concerned that China is bolstering Russia's economy and supplying weapons components for the conflict in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (May 16) said that closed military-political partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region were "harmful".

During a press briefing, Putin said,"It is necessary to work towards building a reliable and appropriate security architecture in the Asia-Pacific region, in which there is no place for closed military-political alliances. We believe they are very harmful and the creation of such alliances is counterproductive."Putin is currently on a two-day state visit.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Russia and China. "Rising economic ties between Russia, China exemplify mutualdevelopment," Xi said.

The Chinese President also commented on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and endorsed the need for an IndependentPalestine.

"Today's world still suffers from cold War mentality, threatstopeace... War in Gaza must be resolved with recognition of IndependentPalestine," Xi said.

While Putin, in a statement that demonstrates close Russia-China relationship, said that he remains in constant contact with Xi to discuss and control "difficult matters".

China-Russia expanding ties

Meanwhile, Putin said that Rosatom, Russia's nuclear energy company, is collaborating with China to develop units and enhanceChina's energy infrastructure. Russia and China are also jointly working on international transport corridors to strengthen connectivity. The two nations continuouslyhold cultural exchange programs to deepen ties, while educational and scientific partnerships are also expanding between the two nations.

Xi said the China-Russia ties are 'conducive to peace', while, in a similar statement, Putin stated that the ties between the two nations are 'stabilising' for world."

(With inputs from agencies)