On August 24, 2024, a delegation from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) led by Ground Force Commander Li Qiaoming arrived in Moscow for discussions with Russian Deputy Defence Minister Colonel General Alexander Fomin. This visit followed a significant meeting on August 23, where Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to enhance economic and technological cooperation, signing over a dozen agreements [26741f07].
The 'no limits' partnership between China and Russia, which was declared before Putin's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, has been strengthening. Since the invasion, trade between the two nations has doubled to approximately $240 billion, indicating a robust economic relationship despite China's relatively minor economic ties compared to its $1.5 trillion trade with the US and Europe [72b1f0ba].
During the PLA delegation's visit, discussions focused on military cooperation, although specific details were not disclosed [26741f07]. Joint military exercises have notably increased, with Chinese and Russian bombers recently patrolling near Alaska, showcasing the growing military collaboration between the two nations [72b1f0ba].
China's approach to its relationship with Russia remains pragmatic and transactional, benefiting from Russia's weakened position in the global arena. While China imports discounted Russian oil, it has avoided reliance on Russian gas and suspended plans for the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline [72b1f0ba]. Furthermore, Chinese goods dominate Russian markets, with 70% of smartphones and 49% of new cars sold in 2023 being of Chinese origin [72b1f0ba].
Despite the strengthening ties, NATO has accused China of enabling Russia's war in Ukraine, a claim that China has rebuffed as Cold War rhetoric. In response to the ongoing conflict, China has published a six-point peace plan, suggesting a separate peace conference to address the crisis [72b1f0ba]. This evolving dynamic reflects a complex relationship where historical enmity has given way to cooperation, particularly as both nations navigate the challenges posed by the United States and NATO's focus on Asia [72b1f0ba].