Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing on Tuesday for a visit that underscores China's support for Moscow during its war in Ukraine and Russian backing for China's bid to expand its economic and diplomatic influence abroad.

The two countries have formed an informal alliance against the United States and other democratic nations, which is further complicated by the Israel-Hamas war. China has been trying to balance its ties with Israel against its relations with Iran and Syria, both strongly supported by Russia and important for China's economic interests and challenging Washington's influence in the Middle East.

Putin's visit to Beijing is also a show of support for Chinese leader Xi Jinping's signature "Belt and Road" initiative, aimed at building infrastructure and expanding China's overseas influence. In an interview with Chinese state media, Putin praised the Belt and Road Initiative and emphasized the desire for cooperation in these massive but loosely linked projects. This gathering provides Putin with an opportunity to meet with other global leaders who have criticized the Western approach to Russia's war in Ukraine.

Putin mentioned that the discussions with China would also focus on Belt and Road-related projects and their linkage with efforts by an economic alliance of former Soviet Union nations in Central Asia to achieve common development goals. He downplayed the impact of China's economic influence in the region, emphasizing synergy between Russia and China.

The discussions between Putin and Xi also encompassed the growing economic ties between Moscow and Beijing in various sectors, including energy, high-tech, and financial industries, along with China's increasing importance as an export destination for Russia. (ILKHA)