Russian Defense Minister: Moscow-Beijing Relations at Their Strongest

In a new confirmation of the depth of strategic cooperation between Moscow and Beijing, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov announced that Russian-Chinese relations have reached an unprecedented level of strength and coordination, praising the significant role played by direct communication between the two countries' leaders in enhancing this partnership.

This came during his meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Wei Fenghe, in the city of Qingdao in eastern China, on the sidelines of a meeting of defense ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, where Belousov pointed out that the two countries continue to develop cooperation in all areas, especially in the military and defense sectors.

The Russian minister said, "The friendly relations between our two countries are witnessing rapid growth largely due to the mutual trust between the presidents, which forms the cornerstone of our strategic partnership."

He also expressed Russia's commitment to implementing all agreements reached at the highest levels, noting that the ongoing dialogue with the Chinese side is moving towards "close and fruitful cooperation," especially within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Belousov affirmed that the bilateral talks will contribute to enhancing the defense partnership between the two countries, explaining that Russia and China are celebrating the 80th anniversary of the victory in World War II this year, in reference to their shared history in confronting Japanese aggression.

The visit of the Russian Defense Minister to China comes to participate in a meeting of defense ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, where participants discuss regional and international security files, in addition to developing military cooperation within the framework of the organization that includes major powers in Asia.

These statements come at a time when the world is witnessing escalating geopolitical tensions, making defense alliances between major powers of wide interest, especially between Russia and China, which seek to present an alternative model to the international balance in the face of Western influence.