Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the northeastern city of Harbin in China on the final day of his visit, aiming to promote crucial trade between the two countries and gain greater support for his war effort in Ukraine. This trip marks Putin's first visit abroad since his re-election in March.

During the visit, Putin held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, framing the ties between their nations as a stabilizing force in a chaotic world. The strategic partnership between China and Russia has grown closer since the invasion of Ukraine, and China has rejected Western claims that it is aiding Moscow's war effort.

China has provided critical support to Russia's isolated economy, with trade between the two countries booming since the invasion of Ukraine. According to Chinese customs figures, trade between China and Russia reached $240 billion in 2023. Putin's visit to Harbin is part of efforts to enhance the economic relationship between the two countries.

As part of his visit to Harbin, Putin attended the opening ceremony of a Russia-China trade expo. He was accompanied by Han Zheng, China's vice president. Later in the day, Putin held a press conference with Russian media.

Western countries have been pressuring China to cut off support for Russia's economy. The United States has vowed to target financial institutions that facilitate Moscow, leading to a dip in Chinese exports to Russia in March and April. However, China has maintained its support for Russia and emphasized the need for a political solution to the war in Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin's visit to Harbin, China aimed to promote trade between Russia and China and gain support for his war effort in Ukraine. The strategic partnership between the two countries has grown stronger, and China has provided crucial support to Russia's economy. Despite Western pressure, China has maintained its support for Russia.