China confident about Russia ties amid power shift in Moscow

Relations between the two countries have grown closer on their presidents’ watch

Western pressure will ensure that continues, even if the next Russian leader is not as powerful, observers say

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Presidents Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping have met nearly 30 times in the last six years. Photo: Reuters

Published: 10:30pm, 16 Jan 2020Updated: 3:29pm, 17 Feb 2020

Pressure from the West will draw China and Russia closer, irrespective of changes at the top in Moscow, according to diplomatic observers.

The assessment came after Russian President Vladimir Putin called for sweeping constitutional changes, fuelling speculation that Putin could hold on to power after leaving the presidency in 2024.

In his state-of-the-union address on Wednesday, Putin outlined proposed changes to the constitution that would strengthen the roles of the parliament and other government bodies, weakening the potential influence of his successor.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Putin have forged a close relationship, meeting nearly 30 times in the past six years. During a trip to Moscow last year Xi described his Russian counterpart as his “best friend”.

On Thursday, Beijing was quick to dispel questions about the future of ties between the two countries, which have deepened as their relations have been strained with the West, particularly the United States.

Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said China “remains full of confidence about deepening and developing the partnership with Russia”.