Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of bolstering mutual support between China and Russia during a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Beijing. The discussion focused on enhancing collaboration within multilateral frameworks, safeguarding development and security interests, and uniting the Global South to push for a more equitable international order.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Xi urged both nations to support each other in guiding the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) towards greater development. He emphasized the need to inject new momentum into the SCO and strengthen its strategic platform. Xi also extended his cordial greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin and called for the advancement of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Russia.

The SCO, a regional cooperation mechanism co-founded by China and Russia, plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability across Eurasia, Xi highlighted. Lavrov, in response, conveyed President Putin's greetings and noted the deepened strategic partnership between Russia and China under the leadership of both heads of state.

Lavrov expressed Russia's commitment to its relationship with China, emphasizing the importance of high-level exchanges, especially in a year marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. He highlighted Russia's willingness to work with China to enhance cooperation across various fields and maintain communication on international and regional affairs to promote peace and stability.

Additionally, Lavrov expressed Russia's support for China's role as the rotating chair of the SCO, aiming to ensure the success of the upcoming SCO summit in Tianjin.