Lavrov and Xi Jinping Meet to Discuss Bilateral Relations and Preparations for Putin's Upcoming Visit to Beijing

SadaNews - Chinese President Xi Jinping affirmed his country's determination to enhance comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation with Russia, calling for strengthening the solidarity of the two countries in multilateral forums, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

 

This came during the Chinese leader's reception of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who is currently visiting China to participate in a meeting of the foreign ministers of member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization held in Tianjin on Tuesday.

Earlier today, the Chinese leader held a general meeting with foreign ministers of the "Shanghai Cooperation".

The Chinese leader praised Lavrov, describing him as an old friend of the Chinese people, and welcomed his visit to China.

He said, "The foreign ministries of both countries should continue to effectively implement the important agreements reached with President (Russian) Vladimir Putin and enhance mutual support and cooperation in multilateral forums such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization."

The Russian Foreign Ministry published footage of the meeting between Lavrov and Xi Jinping, stating in a press release that Lavrov conveyed friendly greetings and best wishes from Putin to his Chinese counterpart.

The statement noted that the meeting addressed "a number of issues regarding bilateral political communication at the highest levels, including preparations for the Russian head of state's visit to the People's Republic of China to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit and the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the victory over militaristic Japan" in September.

According to the statement, "the Russian side touched upon some current issues on the international and regional agenda."

The Russian Foreign Ministry indicated that the Chinese president welcomed the anticipated visit to China by the Russian president, "who has a good and longstanding friendship with him." Xi Jinping praised the level of bilateral relations between the two countries, reiterating China's interest in enhancing comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation with Russia.

Source: RT+ Agencies