Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing on Tuesday night to deepen the comprehensive partnership with China. The visit comes four days after US President Donald Trump hosted meetings in the capital.
Putin is making his 25th visit to China. He received a formal red-carpet reception at the airport and shared a warm handshake with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. A military guard of honour stood to attention while teenagers waved Chinese and Russian flags.
In a video message delivered ahead of the trip, Putin said Russia-China relations have reached a truly unprecedented level. He noted that the two countries are actively expanding contacts in politics, the economy and defence.
The visit coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Sino-Russian Treaty of Friendship. Putin will stay at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse. His official itinerary begins on Wednesday morning in Tiananmen Square with a welcoming ceremony, followed by talks with Xi Jinping.
