China signals commitment to ‘eternal friendship’ as Li meets Putin in Moscow

China and Russia highlighted their deepening strategic cooperation during talks in Moscow on Tuesday, where Chinese Premier Li Qiang met Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin. The meeting, held alongside the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s Council of Heads of Government, underscored Beijing’s intention to maintain what it terms a long-standing “eternal friendship” with Moscow amid shifting global dynamics.

Strengthening bilateral cooperation

According to Chinese state media, Li emphasized that Beijing’s approach to its partnership with Russia has remained steady despite global uncertainty. He said China aims to broaden collaboration in areas such as trade, visa-free travel and cultural exchange, arguing that closer ties between the two societies will reinforce the stability of the relationship.

Shared focus on long-term economic plans

Putin, referencing a Kremlin transcript of the meeting, said that Russia and China will continue advancing economic and industrial projects under existing long-term frameworks. He pointed to cooperation in sectors including energy, space and agriculture, describing them as essential to strengthening the technological base of the partnership.

People-to-people ties and visa policies

The Russian president also noted China’s recent decision to allow Russian citizens visa-free entry, adding that a reciprocal measure from Moscow would take effect soon. He argued that simplified travel would boost economic activity and help expand humanitarian engagement between the two nations.

Regional cooperation through the SCO

Putin further highlighted the role of China–Russia coordination within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. He said joint efforts in this framework have contributed to shaping what he called “one of the pillars of a multipolar world order,” signaling both sides’ commitment to expanding their influence through regional mechanisms.