Chinese President Xi Jinping stated on Tuesday that China and Russia have established an effective framework for major neighboring countries to coexist, characterized by non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third parties.

These comments were made during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, following Xi’s arrival in Kazan for the 16th BRICS Summit.

Highlighting that this year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Russia, Xi noted that the partnership has successfully navigated various challenges over the years.

Both nations, committed to the principles of enduring good-neighborliness, friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination, and mutually beneficial cooperation, have consistently deepened and broadened their collaboration across multiple sectors, according to Xi.

This collaboration has provided significant momentum for the development, revitalization, and modernization of both countries, contributing positively to the welfare of the Chinese and Russian peoples and promoting international fairness and justice, Xi added.

Acknowledging the unprecedented transformations currently shaping the world, which have led to a rapidly evolving and turbulent international environment, Xi expressed confidence that the deep-rooted friendship between China and Russia will remain steadfast, along with their shared responsibility as major global players.

Bilateral cooperation in trade and large-scale joint projects continues to progress despite facing significant external challenges, Xi stated. He emphasized the need for both nations to enhance the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative with the Eurasian Economic Union to foster high-quality economic development.

Xi highlighted that next year will mark the 80th anniversary of the United Nations’ founding and the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.

As permanent members of the UN Security Council and influential global players, China and Russia should deepen their strategic coordination, enhance communication within multilateral frameworks like the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, promote an accurate understanding of World War II history, uphold the UN-centered international system, and work together to maintain global strategic stability and ensure international fairness and justice, Xi remarked.

He also noted that the BRICS mechanism serves as a crucial platform for solidarity and cooperation among emerging markets and developing nations, commending Russia’s significant contributions as the BRICS chair.

Xi expressed his anticipation for engaging in comprehensive discussions with leaders at the upcoming summit regarding the future of the BRICS mechanism, aiming to build consensus, convey a strong message of unity and collaboration, and enhance strategic coordination and practical cooperation across various sectors within BRICS, ultimately creating more opportunities for the Global South.

In response, Putin remarked that since the establishment of diplomatic relations 75 years ago, Russia and China have evolved into comprehensive strategic partners, with their bilateral relations experiencing sustained high-level growth and establishing a new model for relationships among major countries.

Through collaborative efforts from both nations, the partnership between Russia and China, founded on principles of equality, mutual respect, and shared benefits, continues to progress. The initiatives under the Russia-China Years of Culture have been successfully executed. Russia is eager to further enhance its cooperation with China to foster the development and revitalization of both countries.

As next year marks the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II, Putin highlighted the significant sacrifices made by both Russia and China for victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. He expressed Russia’s willingness to jointly commemorate this significant occasion with China.

Additionally, Russia is prepared to maintain robust high-level exchanges and strategic communication with China on international matters, collaborating to uphold international fairness, justice, and global strategic stability.

Putin expressed gratitude to China for its support during Russia’s BRICS presidency, emphasizing Russia’s commitment to work closely with China to ensure the success of the first BRICS Summit following its expansion, aiming for positive outcomes in enhanced BRICS cooperation.

The two leaders also engaged in a thorough discussion regarding key international and regional issues of mutual interest.