Role of collaboration emphasized

Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded a state visit to China, his 25th trip to the country, where he and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed strengthening bilateral ties. The two leaders announced a 'new stage' in their relationship, agreeing to extend the China-Russia friendship treaty and promote a more just and equitable global order. During the visit, they signed multiple cooperation agreements and emphasized the importance of multilateralism, international law, and UN principles in addressing global challenges. Experts highlighted the growing strategic coordination between China and Russia as a stabilizing force in the current volatile global environment. Maarij Farooq, deputy editor-in-chief at Daily Ittehad Media Group, noted that their collaboration reflects the emergence of a multipolar world order, where dialogue and cooperation replace confrontation. Karori Singh, former director of the South Asia Studies Centre at the University of Rajasthan, stressed that as founding members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, China and Russia bear responsibility for fairness in global governance. The joint statement issued during Putin’s visit advocated for a multipolar world and a new type of international relations, offering an alternative to existing global security architectures. Vasily Kashin, director of the Center for Comprehensive European and International Studies, described the declaration as a realistic proposal to unite developing nations wary of unpredictable actions by certain powers. Meanwhile, the visit coincided with the launch of the China-Russia Years of Education, the 10th national theme year between the two countries, aimed at deepening academic and cultural exchanges. China also extended its visa-free policy for Russian citizens until December 31, 2027, to further facilitate travel and collaboration. Ilia Yampolsky, a senior researcher at the Russian Academy of Sciences, praised the policy for reducing travel barriers and fostering the exchange of scholars and ideas. Alexander Pikover, another researcher, emphasized the need for expanded humanitarian, scientific, and educational ties between the two nations amid evolving geopolitical dynamics. Analysts like Lawrence Freeman and Anthony Moretti noted the visit’s significance in shifting global power dynamics, with the Global South gaining prominence. Moretti argued that a multipolar world is inevitable and urged other nations to acknowledge this trend rather than resist it. The visit underscored China and Russia’s shared commitment to stability, cooperation, and a rules-based international system.