Chinese leader Xi Jinping meets Putin in Moscow, days after the Russian leader was accused of war crimes

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow on Monday for his first visit to Russia since his counterpart Vladimir Putin began his visit Ukraine invasion. Xi’s visit is expected to last three days.

“I am confident that the visit will be fruitful and give new impetus to the healthy and stable development of China-Russia relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation in a new era,” Xi said after his arrival in Moscow, according to the Russian state. TASS news agency.

Putin greeted the Chinese leader, who has praised China’s growth in recent years, saying, “We even envy you a little.”

Putin also said he had “carefully studied” China’s proposal to end the war in Ukraine. This plan, which urges respect for “the sovereignty of all countries,” does not call for the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine.

“You also understand that we are always open to the negotiation process. We will, of course, discuss all these issues, including your initiatives, which we treat with respect,” Putin said.

“I expect that during the visit, I will comprehensively exchange views with President Vladimir Putin on bilateral relations and important regional and international issues of common concern, and outline a plan for developing strategic interaction and pragmatic cooperation,” Xi said.

The visit of the Chinese leader comes amid fears of this China may be preparing to introduce lethal weapons Russia for its war in Ukraine, which China denies. It also comes days after Putin’s rule accused of war crimesincluding the organization of the forced deportation of Ukrainian children to Russian territory, by the prosecutors of the International Criminal Court.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the two leaders would have an informal meal together on Monday, and that broader talks were scheduled for Tuesday.