Beijing: The Chinese government has formally congratulated Vladimir Putin on winning another six-year term as president of Russia.
State media reported that foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian offered China’s congratulations when asked about the election results at a regular press briefing on Monday.
With nearly all polling stations reporting, Putin had secured around 87% of the vote, according to official figures released by Russia’s Central Election Commission.
While the election faced criticism for a lack of genuine opposition candidates, China’s statement affirmed the strength of Beijing-Moscow ties.
“China and Russia are each other’s largest neighbours and comprehensive strategic cooperative partners in the new era,” Lin said. “We firmly believe that, under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Putin, China-Russia relations will continue to move forward.”
The comments came as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year. Putin himself expressed appreciation for China, saying he was sure bilateral cooperation would only grow stronger.
Observers noted that China’s public endorsement provides diplomatic backing for Putin amid tensions with Western nations over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Both leaders have fostered a close personal relationship centered around aligned foreign policy goals.
Though once estranged ideologically, China and Russia have cultivated close economic and security cooperation in recent years. The strengthened partnership serves as a counterweight to U.S. influence globally.
It remains to be seen if President Xi will follow tradition and personally call Putin to offer private congratulations, as their “strong friendship” has been touted frequently. Either way, Beijing’s public support underscores the solid strategic alliance between the rising superpower and the resurgent Russia.
