Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and addressing the ongoing Ukraine crisis. The meeting took place on the sidelines of a BRICS gathering, highlighting the importance of unity among emerging economies.
Wang Yi emphasized that despite rapid changes in the international landscape, the mutual trust and support between China and Russia remain steadfast. “Under the strategic leadership of our countries, we must continue to work together to boost cooperation in various fields,” he said.
The Chinese foreign minister also highlighted the growing strategic value of BRICS cooperation. “As founding members, China and Russia should strengthen coordination within the BRICS framework, deepen cooperation among developing countries and emerging economies, and enhance the influence of BRICS Plus,” Wang added. “Together, we can contribute to a more just and equitable global governance system.”
Sergey Lavrov echoed these sentiments, stressing the necessity of close interaction between Russia and China in response to the rapidly changing global landscape. He expressed Russia’s willingness to work with China in preparing for upcoming exchanges between their heads of state. “We look forward to commemorating together the 80th anniversaries of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War and the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression,” Lavrov said.
Regarding the Ukraine crisis, Lavrov provided an update on the situation and reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to engage in unconditional peace talks with Ukraine. He emphasized the need to address the root causes of the conflict and announced that Russia would implement a temporary ceasefire around May 9, marking the Soviet Union’s victory anniversary.
Wang Yi reiterated China’s principled stance on promoting peace and dialogue. “China supports all efforts conducive to a peaceful resolution of the crisis,” he said.
The two ministers also discussed enhancing cooperation within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and the G20. They exchanged views on issues related to Iran’s nuclear program and the situation on the Korean Peninsula.
The meeting underscores the commitment of China and Russia to maintain international order, uphold the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, and resist unilateral actions. As global dynamics continue to evolve, the close ties between these two nations play a significant role in shaping a more balanced and just world.
