In his first face-to-face meeting with his Chinese counterpart since the outbreak of the Ukraine war Xi JinpingRussian President Wladimir Putin said he appreciates China’s “balanced position” in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
What happened: Putin and Xi met in Uzbekistan on Thursday on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, where the two leaders discussed the geopolitical situation in relation to Ukraine and Taiwan.
“We appreciate the balanced position of our Chinese friends regarding the Ukraine crisis. We understand your questions and concerns about this. During today’s meeting, of course, we will explain our position,” Putin told Xi to Reuters reportedciting televised opening speeches at the bilateral meeting.
Putin also addressed China’s concerns about Taiwan, saying Russia “condemns the provocations by the United States and its satellites in the Taiwan Strait.”
“We intend to firmly adhere to the ‘One China’ principle,” Putin added.
Meanwhile, the Chinese president said he was ready to work with Putin “to play a leading role in demonstrating great power responsibility and bringing stability and positive energy to a world in turmoil.”
