Following Beijing Talks, Putin Extends Invitation to Xi Jinping for Russia Visit

Chinese Leader Xi Jinping Meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin

According to Главком: On May 20, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks in Beijing. During their discussions, the two leaders addressed key topics including the deepening of bilateral cooperation, criticism of U.S. foreign policy, and the ongoing conflict in Iran. Putin referred to Xi as his 'dear friend' and emphasized that the Russia-China relationship has repeatedly proven its resilience through various challenges.

“Dear friend” - Vladimir Putin on Xi Jinping

Putin formally invited Xi to visit Russia in 2027 and also expressed willingness to travel to China in the autumn for the APEC summit in Shenzhen. During the meeting, Xi stressed the need for a 'swift resolution' to the war in Iran, noting that this is critical for reducing global disruptions in energy supplies.

Enduring Partnership and Global Challenges

The two sides agreed to extend the Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation between China and Russia, originally signed 25 years ago in 2001. Xi called for stronger 'comprehensive strategic coordination' between the nations, pointing out that the international landscape is marked by intertwined turbulence and transformation, while unilateral hegemonic currents are intensifying.

Putin arrived in China on an official visit on May 19, with his plane landing in Beijing that evening. At the airport, he was greeted by an honor guard and a group of people waving Russian and Chinese flags. This visit came just days after Xi met with U.S. President Donald Trump, underscoring the importance of dialogue among major world powers. The closed-door talks concluded, and the leaders then moved on to expanded-format discussions.

This meeting between the Chinese and Russian leaders signals the continued strengthening of bilateral ties, which have become especially prominent amid global political tensions. Discussions on the Iran war and criticism of U.S. foreign policy highlight the shared interests of both countries in addressing international challenges. Deepening cooperation between China and Russia could significantly impact the global geopolitical landscape, particularly in the energy sector and security matters.

As global dynamics shift, the upcoming visit of Xi Jinping to the U.S. in 2026 highlights the intricate relationships between major powers. This meeting will provide further context to the ongoing dialogues initiated in Beijing, emphasizing the significance of international cooperation amidst rising tensions.