Russian Defense Minister Arrives in China for Military Talks

Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov arrived in Beijing on October 14 for an official visit. During his first trip to China as defense minister, Belousov will “conduct a number of talks with the Chinese military and political leadership,” according to a statement from the Russian Defense Ministry.

A video released by the Russian Defense Ministry shows Minister Belousov being greeted by Chinese servicemen in Beijing while a military band played the Russian national anthem.

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun (left) and Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov in Beijing on October 14, 2024. Photo: Russian Defense Ministry

During a meeting with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun, Belousov said military cooperation between China and Russia plays an important role in "maintaining global and regional stability." He also said he hoped his talks in Beijing would "help strengthen the Russia-China strategic partnership in the defense sphere."

For his part, Dong said that China and Russia want to develop bilateral military cooperation and will remain steadfast allies in this area. "This is our first meeting, but we have a solid foundation of friendship between the two countries. We have a common desire to promote military cooperation. I believe we will be good partners," Dong said.

"In terms of our cooperation and joint efforts, I think we can develop military cooperation and open a new chapter here," the Chinese defense minister said, noting that his Russian counterpart was appointed to his current position during what he called a "critical" period in history.

"And you have been given the great responsibility of serving as defense minister during this period. You have very important tasks. I think this reflects the trust of Russian President Vladimir Putin in you and demonstrates your leadership abilities," Dong told Belousov.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin declared an “unlimited” partnership shortly before Moscow launched its military campaign in Ukraine. Russia and China have also conducted a series of joint military exercises since then.

In August, Mr Putin said Russia's economic and trade relations with China were "bearing fruit" and the two countries were working together on joint "economic and humanitarian" projects.

Last month, Russian and Chinese warships conducted joint exercises in the Pacific Ocean, as part of what Mr Putin said were the largest naval exercises in three decades.

Earlier this month, the Russian Navy's Pacific Fleet conducted anti-submarine exercises with its Chinese counterparts in the northwest Pacific Ocean.

Minh Duc (According to TASS, Moscow Times, Barron's)

Source: https://www.nguoiduatin.vn/bo-truong-quoc-phong-nga-den-trung-quoc-de-dam-phan-quan-su-204241014210826959.htm