Beijing, Apr 16:
Chinese President Xi Jinping told Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov that China and Russia should work more closely to restore the authority of the UN and strengthen multilateralism. He called for deeper coordination within the BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation to promote a “more just and reasonable” international order and counter what he described as aggressive unilateral actions by the United States.
Xi urged both countries to increase strategic trust, expand cooperation, and support the Global South, emphasizing joint efforts to safeguard shared interests amid global instability. He also highlighted the importance of resisting a return to a “law of the jungle” in global affairs.
Lavrov echoed the message, describing China-Russia ties as a stabilising force and suggesting increased energy cooperation, offering Russian oil and gas exports to help address shortages caused by global disruptions. He also warned of growing geopolitical tensions driven by Western efforts to contain Moscow and Beijing.
The meeting comes amid heightened global uncertainty linked to US-Iran tensions and energy disruptions.
Both sides are also preparing for upcoming BRICS engagement and broader diplomatic activity as they seek to reinforce their influence in global governance institutions.