Strong China-Russia relations are stabilising force in a ‘turbulent’ landscape: Xi Jinping

In Beijing, Chinese president tells Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov ‘both sides should maintain strategic resolve’3-MIN READ3-MIN2ListenPublished: 5:01pm, 15 Apr 2026Updated: 5:13pm, 15 Apr 2026Amid escalating turmoil in the Middle East and mounting global uncertainty, Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged China and Russia to elevate their strategic partnership to new heights by deepening “all-around cooperation” and reinvigorating the authority of the United Nations.During a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Beijing on Wednesday, he cast the growing bilateral relationship as a stabilising force in a volatile world, rooted in history, driven by strategic coordination and committed to shaping a multipolar order.The meeting occurred against the backdrop of acute international instability and heightened global energy volatility, triggered by the ongoing US-Israeli war against Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Iranians dismiss Trump threats to block Hormuz StraitIranians dismiss Trump threats to block Hormuz Strait“In the face of a turbulent international landscape, the stability and certainty of China-Russia relations are especially valuable,” he told Lavrov, who was on a two-day visit, at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, according to the official Chinese statement about the meeting.“Both sides should fully implement the important consensus I reached with President [Vladimir] Putin, strengthen strategic communication, enhance diplomatic coordination, and push the Sino-Russian comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination to stand taller, move more steadily and go further.”Amid what he described as profound global changes unseen in a century, Xi stressed the importance of defending legitimate interests, safeguarding the unity of the Global South and fulfilling the responsibilities of major powers and permanent UN Security Council members.“Both sides should maintain strategic resolve, trust each other, support one another and focus on their own development. They should make full use of their geographic proximity and complementary strengths, deepen all-round cooperation and enhance resilience in development,” he said.