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Xi Jinping's Diplomatic Outreach: A Day with Putin and Trump

On February 5, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in an extraordinary day of diplomacy, holding separate meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump. This unique sequence of interactions reflects China's increasing importance as a stabilizing force in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape.

Strengthening Ties with Russia

In his virtual talk with Putin, Xi reviewed the progress of Sino-Russian relations over the past year, highlighting significant strides in strategic coordination, economic collaboration, cultural exchange, and multilateral engagement. Both leaders celebrated the 80th anniversary of the victory against fascism in World War II, reaffirming their commitment to uphold international justice and fairness.

Economic relations between China and Russia remained robust, with trade volumes hitting an impressive $228.1 billion in 2025, surpassing the $200 billion threshold for the third consecutive year. Xi emphasized that the successful conclusion of the China-Russia Year of Culture had deepened connections between the citizens of both nations.

Xi also pointed out the cooperative efforts under the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which contribute to establishing a more balanced global governance system. Looking ahead, he expressed the necessity for high-level exchanges and practical collaboration to ensure that bilateral relations continue moving forward positively. Putin resonated with Xi’s sentiments, affirming Russia’s steadfast support for China in defending its sovereignty and security.

Navigating U.S.-China Relations

Xi’s conversation with Trump focused on expanding cooperation and managing the ongoing U.S.-China relationship amidst persistent differences. Referencing their prior meeting in Busan, Xi remarked on the need for collaboration based on equality, respect, and mutual benefit. With the new year marking the commencement of China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) and the upcoming 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, Xi promoted an agenda of enhanced communication and trust-building to foster peaceable coexistence.

Trump responded positively, recognizing the significance of U.S.-China relations as the world’s most critical bilateral partnership and expressing his readiness to support stable development in mutual relations. Additional discussions included the contentious issue of Taiwan, where Xi reiterated China's commitment to protect its territorial integrity, urging the U.S. to exercise caution in arms dealings with Taiwan. Trump acknowledged China’s concerns while signaling a willingness to maintain stable bilateral ties during his presidency.

China's Commitment to Global Stability

The backdrop of these crucial talks is characterized by high global tensions, including threats of military confrontation between the U.S. and Iran, along with the expiration of the last U.S.-Russian nuclear arms control agreement. Additionally, significant geopolitical flashpoints—such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and political turmoil in Venezuela—remain pressing challenges.

Wang Yiwei, a professor at Renmin University, commented on these diplomatic engagements, reflecting China’s desire to facilitate cooperation among global powers, prevent reckless actions, and contribute to a more stable international environment. In a world experiencing increasing fragmentation of the old order, China aims to partner with major world powers towards a more equitable multipolar system and promote an inclusive model of economic globalization.

The diplomatic flurry witnessed in early February 2026, with representatives from nations such as South Korea, Ireland, Canada, Finland, the UK, and Uruguay visiting China, showcases a growing willingness among Western countries to seek stability and developmental collaboration with China, despite political differences.

Wang emphasized China’s long-standing advocacy for multilateralism and its stance against the “law of the jungle,” presenting a vision of shared future humanity alongside four major global initiatives, thereby providing the international community with much-needed certainty amidst turbulence.

In conclusion, Xi Jinping’s day of talks with Putin and Trump serves as a powerful reminder of China’s strategic diplomatic efforts to establish itself as a pivotal stabilizing force in the world, striving for a cooperative and prosperous future for all nations involved.