Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu is embarking on a visit to Russia and Belarus to demonstrate support as the Western countries attempt to isolate these two allies due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Li’s journey began on Monday and spans six days. During this time, he is scheduled to give a speech at the Moscow Conference on International Security and hold meetings with defense leaders from Russia and various other nations. China’s defense ministry shared this information via their social media account, with spokesperson Colonel Wu Qian cited as the source.
At the conference, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is expected to discuss the topic of “Majority World countries’ search for ways to development outside Western mechanisms, including strengthening multilateral associations of a new type,” as reported by Russia’s official TASS news agency. Approximately 100 countries and eight international organizations have been invited to participate in the conference, aiming to deliberate on matters of security in the context of a multipolar world order and the need to restore constructive international cooperation.
China’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, noted that Chinese and Russian leaders have been engaging in strategic communication on various issues. They’ve exchanged high-level views on bilateral cooperation and common concerns. Wang emphasized that both nations are committed to advancing their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
This aligns with the joint statement issued by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing last year before Russia’s February invasion. The statement conveyed an unwavering friendship between the two nations.
Li’s participation in the conference underscores the ongoing effort by China and Russia to align their foreign policies, challenging the Western-led liberal-democratic world order, despite potential economic and reputational consequences.
Following the conference, Li will travel to Belarus, a staunch ally of Russia. Belarus’ territory was partly used in the staging of the previous year’s invasion. During his stay, Li plans to hold meetings with Belarusian state and military leaders, in addition to visiting military facilities.
Although China maintains a stance of neutrality in the Ukraine conflict, it has accused the United States and its allies of provoking Russia. China continues to maintain strong economic, diplomatic, and trade ties with Moscow. While China supports Russia in international forums regarding the Ukraine situation, it asserts that it will refrain from providing arms to either side of the conflict.