Russian, Chinese presidents to discuss NATO’s belligerent rhetoric, says Kremlin spokesman

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping will address NATO’s belligerent rhetoric and tense situation in Europe during the talks, which are going to take place on Wednesday via video linkup, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Tuesday.

“[The sides] will exchange their views on international affairs. The recent developments in international affairs, especially on the European continent, are now very tense and this definitely requires discussion between the allies, between Moscow and Beijing,” the Kremlin spokesman noted.

Furthermore, Peskov mentioned that Russia saw “a very aggressive rhetoric both from NATO and the US.” This also needs to be discussed, the spokesman said.

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China, Russia make new achievements in strategic coordination, practical cooperation

Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin via video link on Wednesday, another virtual conference this year following the one in June.

Since the beginning of this year, China and Russia have taken the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the signing of the China-Russia Treaty of Good-neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation as a new starting point to promote strategic coordination and comprehensive practical cooperation between the two countries.

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The heads of state have maintained frequent and close contacts in 2021. In May, Xi and Putin witnessed the ground-breaking ceremony of a bilateral nuclear energy cooperation project via video link.

In June, the presidents met via video link to jointly announce the extension of the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation.

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A joint military exercise between China and Russia, named ZAPAD/INTERACTION-2021, was carried out in northwest China. The two navies conducted their first joint maritime cruise, and the two air forces carried out their third joint strategic aerial patrol.

The two militaries strengthened coordination via participating in the “Peace Mission 2021” counter-terrorism military drill of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states and the International Army Games 2021.

As comprehensive strategic partners of coordination for a new era, China and Russia firmly support each other on major issues concerning each other’s core interests, coordinate closely on international affairs, and play a pivotal role in maintaining global peace and stability, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui has said.