Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov arrived in Beijing on Tuesday with the aim of enhancing cooperation on several critical issues, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Upon his arrival, Lavrov received a formal red-carpet welcome, as documented by images released by the Russian foreign ministry.
On the same day, China hosted several leaders from countries affected by the Middle East war and its economic repercussions, such as Vietnam’s To Lam and Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Lavrov is scheduled to meet with China’s top diplomat Wang Yi to exchange perspectives and align their positions on the advancement of bilateral relations, collaboration across various sectors, and international and regional matters of shared interest, statements from China’s foreign ministry.
The Russian foreign ministry confirmed that discussions between Lavrov and Wang Yi will cover the war in Ukraine alongside the Middle East situation. Beijing and Moscow maintain a close economic and political partnership, a relationship that has intensified following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Earlier this month, on April 5, Wang Yi and Lavrov held a phone conversation during which they agreed to collaborate in efforts to reduce tensions in the Middle East. Meanwhile, China’s Premier Li Qiang conveyed to the UAE leader that Beijing is prepared to play a more constructive role and contribute to restoring peace and stability in the Gulf region.
