Russia, China hold high-level talks on missile defense

The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that Russia and China held talks in Moscow this week on missile defense and strategic stability, and agreed to strengthen cooperation in both areas.

The ministry added in a statement that the discussions included a joint analysis of destabilizing factors that create strategic risks to global and regional security, as well as an exchange of views on ways to mitigate these risks.

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov held talks with General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of China’s Central Military Commission, during the Chinese delegation’s visit to Moscow. The delegation was welcomed at Russia’s National Defense Management Center with an honor guard and military band before bilateral discussions began.

Belousov said the friendly relationship between the leaders of both countries has strengthened Russia-China cooperation and led to a sharp increase in joint training and combat exercises on land, at sea, and in the air, as the two sides begin implementing top-level agreements. He stressed that these activities are meant to enhance the security of both states and are not directed at any third party.

For his part, Zhang Youxia said that under strategic guidance, China-Russia relations have continued to develop in a healthy and stable manner, becoming a model for a new type of international relations and an example of cooperation between major neighboring powers. He added that both sides reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the important agreements reached by their leaders.

The Defense Ministry noted that these talks form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen military and strategic coordination between Russia and China, reflecting their shared commitment to working together in confronting regional and international risks.