Russia's Putin hails 'unprecedented' ties with China at talks in Beijing

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing, reaffirming their countries' strong bilateral ties. Putin praised the "unprecedented" nature of the Russia-China relationship, emphasizing their joint efforts to establish a "more just and reasonable global governance system." The two leaders discussed a range of issues, including economic cooperation, energy, and global affairs. They expressed their commitment to deepening their strategic partnership, which has grown closer in recent years as both countries have faced increased tensions with the West. The meeting comes as Russia continues its military invasion of Ukraine, and as China seeks to balance its relationship with Russia while also maintaining its economic ties with the West. The talks between Putin and Xi are seen as an opportunity for the two authoritarian leaders to present a united front and challenge the US-led international order.