Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where both leaders emphasized the strengthening economic and trade ties between their countries amid ongoing Western sanctions on Russia due to the Ukraine conflict. Putin noted that their collaborative efforts are yielding positive results, with record levels of trade and large-scale joint projects in various sectors being established. Li highlighted the importance of scientific and industrial innovation in driving their partnership and proposed deepening cultural and educational exchanges. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promoting multipolarity in global affairs and enhancing cooperation with developing nations. As 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Russia, the meeting underscores a pivotal moment in their bilateral relationship. The discussions did not address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine directly, despite its backdrop.