• Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi declares Russia and China as "friends forever" during a visit to Moscow.
• Wang emphasizes a constructive role in ending the Ukraine conflict while reaffirming support for Russia.
• Putin expresses anticipation for Xi Jinping's upcoming visit in May for Russia's Victory Day celebrations.
• The visit underscores growing cooperation between China and Russia amid complex geopolitical tensions.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated the strong alliance between China and Russia, stating they are "friends forever, never enemies" during his recent visit to Moscow. This trip involved high-level talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as well as the bilateral relationship between the two nations, as reported by Reuters.

Wang, during his discussions, welcomed signs of a thaw in relations between Washington and Moscow, indicative of a shifting global landscape. He stated that the principle of "friends forever, never enemies" is key to advancing their strategic cooperation further. This strategic partnership, declared as being without limits, has gained momentum since Russia's military intervention in Ukraine commenced in February 2022.

The Chinese diplomat articulated China's readiness to play a "constructive role" in resolving the Ukraine conflict, while also reaffirming support for Russia's sovereignty and interests. His comments come as tensions rise globally and amid shifts in U.S. policy regarding Russia, particularly under President Donald Trump's administration which has recently showcased a more conciliatory approach.

During meetings with Lavrov, Wang emphasized collaborative efforts to foster peace and development, indicating that their countries' comprehensive cooperation is at a new high. The discussions also revolved around preparations for President Xi Jinping's upcoming visit for the May Victory Day celebrations, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's defeat in World War II, as detailed by the South China Morning Post.

The dialogue included speculations about potential peace settlements regarding Ukraine, with both nations positioning themselves as stabilizing forces amid rising geopolitical tensions. Wang remarked, "The step towards peace, although not that big, is constructive - it's worth building on it,” signifying a commitment to continued negotiations, as cited in a report from Channel News Asia.

As the situation evolves, the Kremlin's outlook toward improving relations with the U.S., along with China's supportive stance towards Russia, suggests a complex interplay of global diplomacy, with both nations aiming to enhance their strategic roles on the world stage.

For more details, check the full articles from Al Jazeera.