Key details of major gas pipeline yet to be agreed after Xi-Putin talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping met in Beijing, signing more than 20 agreements covering trade, technology, intellectual property, and scientific research. Their joint statement highlighted a 'multi-polar world order' and emphasized that both nations are committed to independent foreign policies while playing stabilizing roles globally. Despite years of delays, the two countries have not yet finalized key details of a major natural gas pipeline deal, though Putin’s aide confirmed a 'general understanding' was reached earlier. Xi declared that China-Russia relations have reached the 'highest level of comprehensive strategic partnership,' calling the ties a 'new starting point' built on mutual respect. He stressed that the countries must remain 'strategic strongholds' for each other, maintaining high-level communication. Putin, in response, reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to continue uninterrupted oil and gas supplies to China, framing bilateral trade as shielded from global market pressures. The leaders also pledged to deepen cooperation in artificial intelligence and tech innovation while opposing 'unilateral bullying' and actions that 'reverse history.' Analysts note Beijing’s cautious approach, balancing public support for Moscow without overcommitting, though the lack of concrete pipeline progress suggests lingering economic and political hesitations. A lengthy joint statement referenced Russian gas supplies but did not detail breakthroughs in the pipeline negotiations. The meeting underscored broader alignment on global issues, including resistance to Western influence, though critical infrastructure deals remain pending.