Putin Strengthens China Ties as Kim Jong-un Arrives for Beijing Military Parade

Russian President Vladimir Putin has hailed the relationship between Moscow and Beijing as being at an “unprecedentedly high level” during talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of China’s Victory Day military parade. Calling Xi a “dear friend,” Putin emphasized that the two nations remain closely aligned in strategy and cooperation.
Xi and Putin also signed more than 20 bilateral agreements, including a landmark deal to construct the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, which will deliver 50 billion cubic meters of Russian gas to China annually through Mongolia over the next 30 years. The agreement underscores China’s role as Russia’s key economic partner amid global tensions and sanctions.
On the eve of the parade, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un arrived in Beijing on his armored train, accompanied by his daughter Kim Ju-ae in her first international appearance. Kim’s presence marks the first time a North Korean leader has attended an international event of such scale since 1959. Putin is expected to hold talks with Kim during his visit.
The Beijing parade, commemorating 80 years since Japan’s defeat in World War II, will showcase Chinese military strength with thousands of troops, tanks, and fighter jets. Leaders from Iran, Myanmar, Zimbabwe, and other nations have also joined the event, signaling support for China’s push to lead a new global order.
China also announced that from September 15, Russian passport holders will enjoy visa-free entry. Xi urged Russia and Mongolia to deepen cooperation with China, highlighting the importance of solidarity during turbulent global times.