Chinese leader Xi Jinping calls Putin ‘dear friend,’ expresses confidence in Russians’ support for his ‘good initiatives’

An informal meeting took place between Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping in the Kremlin, reports Interfax.

During the public part of the meeting, Putin congratulated the Chinese leader on his reelection and flattered him by saying that Russia is “slightly envious” of China’s rapid economic development.

Putin said that he has reviewed Peking’s proposals “for regulating the acute crisis in Ukraine,” adding that the Russian side stands ready to talk and negotiate.

Xi Jinping, in turn, called Putin a “dear friend,” expressing confidence that Russians would support his “good initiatives.” Although these remarks were made in the context of Russia’s forthcoming 2024 presidential election, the Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov later denied that Xi Jinping was talking about Putin running for president.

According to Yuri Ushakov, the Russian president’s assistant for foreign policy, the Russian side had great hopes for the informal behind-the-scenes discussion between the two leaders, planned to continue over an informal dinner.

Officially, the talks between Russia and China are scheduled for 3 p.m. on March 21. Xi Jinping’s state visit will continue until March 22.

Days before the Chinese leader’s arrival in Moscow, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, a member of his administration. Both are being charged with complicity in war crimes committed in Ukraine.