Mishustin heads to China to discuss trade, tech ties
Russia’s top government official began a two-day trip to China on Monday for discussions with senior leaders about strengthening commercial and technical partnerships while both nations face Western economic measures.
Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin will meet with Premier Li Qiang in Hangzhou before traveling to the capital for talks with President Xi Jinping on Tuesday, according to state media reports. The Kremlin described the visit as highly significant. Moscow and Beijing have deepened their relationship since February 2022, when the leaders declared unlimited cooperation shortly before Russian forces entered Ukraine. Trade between the countries reached unprecedented levels as Russia sought alternatives to offset sanctions, with increased use of Chinese currency and expanded energy deals.
Recent data shows bilateral commerce has slowed, with Chinese exports to Russia dropping 21 percent in September from a year earlier. Russia’s industry minister cited external economic pressures and market oversupply of Chinese goods as factors. The agenda for Mishustin’s visit emphasizes transportation links, industrial projects, energy arrangements and cooperation in farming and advanced technologies. Russian officials view industrial partnerships with China as more stable than arrangements dependent on market fluctuations. A preparatory commission meeting addressed increased metal shipments and broader agricultural market access.
