China and Russia announced plans to strengthen strategic trust and expand interaction in the field of maritime and Arctic cooperation, emphasizing the growing significance of their partnership amid global uncertainty.
On Monday in Beijing, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission, met with Nikolai Patrushev, Assistant to the President of Russia and Chairman of the Maritime Council. Wang Yi informed Nikolai Patrushev that the two presidents maintain close ties and are directing relations toward 'higher quality and higher levels.'
Wang noted that oceans represent a blue connection uniting all countries. He stressed that as permanent members of the UN Security Council and major maritime powers, China and Russia bear important responsibilities and possess broad prospects for cooperation in international maritime affairs.
He called for strengthening coordination on maritime strategies, enhancing the protection of legitimate maritime rights, and ensuring the safety of regional and global shipping, as well as joint contribution to creating a maritime community with a common future.
Nikolai Patrushev conveyed greetings from President Vladimir Putin to President Xi Jinping, stating that the comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and China is becoming even more vital. He added that Moscow welcomes cooperation within the framework of the Trans-Arctic International Transport Corridor and multilateral ocean governance, noting the opportunity to learn from China's experience in shipbuilding, logistics, and maritime trade.