In a meeting held in Baku, Azerbaijan, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and multilateral cooperation. Central to their discussions was Russia’s expression of full support for China as it prepares to host the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Shenzhen. This gathering is anticipated to bolster regional cooperation and economic development across the Asia-Pacific region.
The dialogue between the two foreign ministers builds on recent productive meetings between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. These discussions have set the strategic direction for a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations, underscoring their mutual interests in various sectors.
Wang Yi expressed confidence that China’s year as APEC host would yield positive outcomes, emphasizing the role of Russia and other economies in achieving these results. He highlighted the significance of China and Russia working together within multilateral organizations, such as the United Nations and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia, to promote multilateralism and enhance global governance.
Lavrov echoed Wang’s sentiments, noting the continued development of Sino-Russian relations under the guidance of their respective leaders. He reiterated Moscow’s support for China’s hosting of the APEC summit and expressed a willingness to enhance coordination with Beijing through platforms like the United Nations, G20, APEC, and BRICS.
During their meeting, the ministers also exchanged views on upcoming high-level diplomatic engagements and discussed regional and international challenges. Their conversation reflected ongoing efforts by China and Russia to deepen strategic coordination and strengthen cooperation on global economic and political issues.
