Russian leader Vladimir Putin stated that his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping is at an unprecedented level during their meeting in Beijing, occurring just before a significant military parade.

At the meeting, Putin referred to Xi as a dear friend, while Chinese state media described the relations between the two nations as exemplary. The discussions included plans for increasing gas supplies from Russia to China and implementing visa-free travel for Russian passport holders on a trial basis.

Additionally, Xi is set to welcome North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, reinforcing solidarity among the nations regarding the conflicts in Ukraine and other areas of geopolitical interest.

Dear friend, both I and the entire Russian delegation are pleased to meet once again with our Chinese friends and colleagues, Putin conveyed during the talks, emphasizing the strategic partnership between Russia and China.

The meeting highlights the strengthening of Sino-Russian relations at a time when Xi aims to assert China's influence on the global stage, contrasting with the actions of Western nations. Both leaders criticized U.S. actions and expressed intent to establish a more equitable global governance system through their collaboration.

As the military parade draws near, featuring significant participation from Russian and North Korean leadership, it underscores the increasing alignment among these nations amidst Western isolation efforts due to current conflicts.