Xi and Putin Forge 'Steel Friendship' Amid Global Tensions

In a significant geopolitical move, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged on Thursday to elevate their countries' cooperation to unprecedented levels, emphasizing their role as 'friends of steel' in a shifting world order. The two leaders articulated their vision during talks at the Kremlin, standing as counterbalances to Western influence.

The visit by Xi, one of several foreign dignitaries in Moscow for World War Two commemorations, underscores an evolving alliance critical to Russian President Vladimir Putin during heightened global tensions. Xi's presence celebrates the 80th anniversary of the war's end, boosting Putin's domestic image amid ongoing conflicts.

China and Russia, meanwhile, reinforced their economic and strategic ties, vital as they weather Western sanctions. The leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to 'international fairness and justice' and discussed plans for enduring collaboration against perceived 'unilateralism and bullying' from the West, particularly the U.S.

(With inputs from agencies.)