China's support for Russia's military invasion of Ukraine has been evident in recent events, as opposed to calls for halting the aggression. The farewell embrace exchanged between autocratic leaders Chairman Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin at the conclusion of Putin's visit to China exemplified this alignment, contradicting China's claim of neutrality.

During Putin's first overseas trip since commencing his fifth term in power, he visited China on 16-17 May to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. A joint statement, spanning 7,000 words, expressed enthusiasm for the enduring strength and stability of Russian-Chinese relations amidst rapid global changes, asserting that they are currently enjoying their most prosperous period in history.

Beijing reaffirmed its "no-limits strategic partnership" with Moscow during Putin's recent state visit, solidifying the alliance between the two regimes. Rather than advocating for an end to the conflict, Xi Jinping embraced Putin and pledged unwavering support. The joint statement outlined plans to deepen military cooperation, expand joint exercises, and enhance coordination in various security realms, including space exploration, technology, and cyber security.

The leaders, standing united against the USA, criticised Washington for actions perceived as undermining nuclear balance and non-proliferation efforts. They cited concerns over the deployment of intermediate-range missiles, space militarization, and joint military exercises targeting Russia and China.

During a joint press conference on May 16, China and Russia affirmed their support for a political resolution to the Ukrainian crisis, with Xi expressing China's willingness to contribute constructively to peace efforts in Europe.

Despite this, China's role as an intermediary is questionable, given Xi's extensive communication with Putin compared to minimal contact with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy since the invasion.

Following his meeting with Xi, Putin visited the Harbin Institute of Technology in Heilongjiang province on May 17, despite its US sanctions due to its ties with the People's Liberation Army. He was accompanied by his new Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and Yuriy Borisov, head of the Russian space agency Roscosmos.

The Chinese government lauds the China-Russia relationship as a model for mutual respect and cooperation, emphasising its benefits for regional and global peace and prosperity. However, Xi's support for Russia's military actions contradicts these claims of promoting stability.

Putin echoed sentiments of promoting a democratic multipolar world order, despite the authoritarian nature of both regimes. China reiterated the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence but is actively supporting Russia's military endeavours, undermining the principle of non-aggression and peaceful coexistence.

The USA accuses China of significantly aiding Russia's war efforts through machine tools and microelectronics imports, prompting recent sanctions on Chinese firms. China's failure to condemn Russia's actions and its support of Putin's justifications undermine claims of neutrality.

Xi's meeting with Putin followed his European tour, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the US bombing of the Chinese Embassy in Serbia. Despite calls from French and EU leaders to influence Putin, Xi's focus remains on domestic challenges, including COVID-19 and economic issues.

During Xi's European tour, Dr. Yu Jie noted Europe's changing landscape and Xi's attempt to mitigate worsening ties. Xi urged EU institutions to adopt a "correct view" of China, aiming to exploit divisions and promote China's vision of a multipolar world.

Despite attempts to justify its stance on Ukraine, China's main achievement in European eyes is its restraint on Putin's nuclear threats, but it won't side with Europe on the war itself.

Improving EU relations requires China to reassess its approach beyond mere rhetoric of 'win-win' cooperation. China faces economic challenges post-COVID, prompting a shift towards high-value exports like automobiles. Yet, its stance on trade, human rights, and support for Russia strains relationships. Despite Xi's claims, most Europeans doubt China's commitment to pressuring Russia in the Ukraine conflict.

Beijing defends its support of Russia by accusing the US of attempting to blame China for the Ukraine conflict. Zhang Gaosheng, from the China Institute of International Studies, asserts that US sanctions aim to suppress China's military industry. Despite these arguments, Xi Jinping continues to support Russia, showing little interest in resolving the conflict.

Image source: ANI