Putin and Xi announce plans to strengthen military ties in Beijing

Russia's President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing for a two-day state visit to China, marking his first trip abroad since re-election. The visit comes amid Russia's growing economic dependence on China due to Western sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine. Putin was greeted by Chinese officials and an honor guard upon arrival, and met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People. During their meeting, Xi congratulated Putin on his election to a fifth term in office and reiterated that both countries will continue to uphold a position of non-alliance and non-confrontation. The visit is seen as a demonstration of the strong relationship between Russia and China, which has been strengthened by recent tensions with the West.