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New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin told his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping that he was keen on boosting military cooperation in the face of international challenges and hailed the efforts of the two countries to counter Western influence, news agency AFP reported.
Calling the Chinese leader a “dear friend”, Putin said over video conference, “We aim to strengthen cooperation between the armed forces of Russia and China.”
“In the context of growing geopolitical tensions, the importance is growing of the Russian-Chinese strategic partnership as a stabilizing factor,” Putin said, adding, “We share the same views on the causes, course and logic of the ongoing transformation of the global geopolitical landscape.”
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Notably, battered by unprecedented Western sanctions over Moscow’s assault against Ukraine, Russian President Putin has hoped to boost political and military ties with China.
It is to be noted that the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine is a sensitive issue for Beijing and China has sought to position itself as neutral over the situation. However, it has offered diplomatic backing to its strategic ally.
Putin also hailed the efforts of Moscow and Beijing to counter “unprecedented Western pressure and provocations”.
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It is to be noted that as the West seeks to cut reliance on Russian oil and gas in the wake of the conflict, Putin has looked to energy markets in Asia.
“Russia has become one of the leaders when it comes to oil exports to China,” Putin said.
He further said that he was expecting Xi in Moscow on a state visit next spring.
Vladimir Putin also added that Russia was China’s second largest supplier of pipeline gas and fourth largest of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as well.
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