MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping praised their deepening cooperation in a video call on Tuesday, hours after Donald Trump's inauguration as US president. Putin, addressing Xi as his "dear friend", said Russia and China were building ties "on the basis of friendship, mutual trust and support", despite external pressure. "Russia and China's joint work plays an important stabilising role in international affairs," Putin said in the call.
Xi said he hoped to work with Putin to take ties with Moscow to "new heights" this year, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. "Both sides should continue to deepen strategic coordination, resolutely support each other, and safeguard the legitimate interests of both countries," CCTV reported Xi as saying. The two countries should also "expand bilateral relations, driving practical cooperation to deeper levels", he added. Moscow and Beijing have strengthened military and trade ties since Russia sent troops into Ukraine, alarming the United States. — AFP
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