• Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a video call hours after Donald Trump's inauguration.
• The leaders pledged to enhance bilateral relations, focusing on mutual support and strategic coordination.
• Their discussions included trade, the Ukraine conflict, and potential US relations under Trump's administration.
• Putin referred to Xi as a "dear friend," highlighting the depth of their partnership amid external pressures.
• The two nations recorded significant growth in trade, reaching $240 billion in 2023.

In a significant display of solidarity, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin conducted a video conference just hours after Donald Trump's inauguration. The meeting lasted approximately one and a half hours, during which both leaders expressed their commitment to elevate their bilateral ties to "greater heights," as reported by multiple sources, including BBC and CNN.

During the call, Putin, who referred to Xi as his "dear friend," noted that Russia and China are fostering relationships grounded in “friendship, mutual trust, and support”. In response, Xi urged for an emphasis on strengthening their strategic coordination and mutual support, particularly in navigating external uncertainties. He stated that both nations should work together to safeguard their legitimate interests amid increasing geopolitical tensions.

The conversation briefly touched upon the war in Ukraine, with Putin asserting the need for any resolution to “respect Russian interests.” This exchange comes in light of Trump's previous remarks, which labeled China as an "abuser" and hinted that tougher sanctions might be imposed on Russia if it does not engage in negotiations to end the conflict, highlighting potential challenges for both Beijing and Moscow as they chart their course forward. The two leaders also discussed enhancing their “strategic coordination,” as they seek to reshape a global order perceived to be disproportionately influenced by the United States.

Trade figures underscore the deepening relationship between China and Russia, having reached an impressive $240 billion in 2023, marking a significant increase of over 64% since the onset of the Ukraine conflict. This burgeoning economic partnership is seen as crucial in countering Western pressures and reaffirming their global standing.

While both leaders expressed an interest in resetting fraught relations with the United States, the call’s timing was stated to be coincidental regarding Trump's inauguration. They both emphasized a desire to maintain stability and resilience within their bilateral ties, even as they navigate their complex relationship with the U.S. administration.

As Xi and Trump had a call the prior week focusing on a range of topics, including trade and shared global security concerns, the discussion between Xi and Putin reflects their ongoing efforts to strengthen their collaborative efforts amidst evolving international dynamics, with both leaders recognizing the implications that arise from the changing U.S. political climate. Both countries aim to act as counterweights to what they regard as an imbalanced multipolar world and to advocate for a framework of “indivisible security.”

For more detailed information, you can visit the original articles on BBC and CNN.