Xi Jinping Urges Immediate Peace in West Asia During Putin's Visit

In a significant meeting in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged for an immediate cessation of hostilities in West Asia during discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Highlighting the critical state of regional tensions, Xi emphasized the importance of negotiations to prevent renewed conflict. The talks come shortly after US President Trump's visit to China, underscoring the strategic partnership between China and Russia, particularly regarding their ties with Iran. As both leaders aim to enhance cooperation, they plan to extend their long-standing treaty, reflecting their commitment to a more equitable global governance system. This meeting is pivotal amid rising global concerns over tensions in West Asia, particularly following recent events involving Iran.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2026, 13:08 IST

Xi and Putin Discuss Regional Tensions

Russian President Putin (left) walks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a welcoming ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. (Photo:PTI)

Beijing, May 20: During a meeting on Wednesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the urgent need to halt hostilities in West Asia, indicating that the situation has reached a critical point. This discussion took place with Russian President Vladimir Putin amid rising regional tensions.

At the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Xi welcomed Putin and expressed that renewed conflicts in the Gulf and the broader West Asia region should be avoided, highlighting the importance of ongoing negotiations.

“Ending the conflict swiftly will alleviate disruptions to energy supplies, industrial and supply chains, and the global trade framework,” Xi stated.

This meeting is particularly significant as it follows US President Donald Trump's visit to Beijing from May 14 to 15, where he engaged in extensive talks with Xi.

Both China and Russia are closely monitoring the situation, given their strategic partnerships with Iran, which include strong economic and military ties.

Xi described the current international landscape as 'fluid and turbulent' and appeared to critique Trump's policies by stating that 'unilateralism and hegemonism are on the rise.'

“Nevertheless, peace, development, and cooperation remain the aspirations of the people and the dominant trend of our era,” he added.

He called for enhanced coordination between China and Russia, urging both nations to collaborate in making the global governance system 'more equitable and reasonable.'

As permanent members of the UN Security Council and significant global players, Xi urged China and Russia to adopt a strategic and long-term outlook, enhancing their countries' development through high-quality strategic coordination.

According to the Kremlin, approximately 40 agreements are anticipated to be finalized during Putin's visit.

Putin, on his 25th trip to China, referred to Xi as his 'dear friend' and underscored the strong collaboration between their nations.

“Dear Mr. President, Mr. Xi Jinping, dear friend. It is fitting to use a Chinese proverb: 'One day apart feels like three autumns,'” Putin remarked, as reported by Russian news agency Tass.

The leaders also agreed to extend the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation, originally signed 25 years ago.

Prior to their discussions, Xi hosted a ceremonial welcome for Putin at the Great Hall of the People. Putin arrived in Beijing on Tuesday night and was greeted by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

“This marks Putin's 25th visit to China,” stated Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun during a media briefing on Monday, emphasizing the strong strategic relationship between Beijing and Moscow, as well as the personal connection between the two leaders.

Putin's visit occurs against a backdrop of increasing global anxiety regarding tensions in West Asia, particularly following Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and the US's seizure of Iranian ports.

Iran continues to be a vital strategic ally for both Russia and China, with Beijing importing significant quantities of Iranian oil despite US sanctions.