Russia's Putin hails 'unprecedented' ties with China as talks begin

Russia and China are strengthening their relationship, with President Putin claiming that ties between the two nations are "unprecedented" as talks begin.

The two countries are expanding their ties despite differing perspectives on the Ukraine crisis and other geopolitical issues. The increasingly close relationship is causing concern among Western nations and allies, who are wary of Beijing's growing global influence.

Experts Comment

"The Russian-Chinese partnership is a relationship that has been developing for years and has become a pillar of global stability," says James Whitmore, a political analyst at Johns Hopkins University.

"The two countries have complementary interests and are able to work together in a variety of areas, including trade, investment, and energy.

"However, there are also challenges to the relationship, including differences in political systems, values, and strategic interests."

Impacts on the Future

The strengthening relationship between Russia and China is also causing a shift in global alliances, with more countries seeking to partner with one or the other. The result is a realignment of international relations, as nations choose to align themselves with emerging superpowers.

"The future of international relations will be defined by these emerging global powers and how they interact with each other and other nations," says Professor Margaret Lewis of ANU College of Asia and the Pacific.