Xi, Putin seek deeper ties amid global uncertainties at SCO summit

The two leaders discussed expanding cooperation across multiple domains, including artificial intelligence and digital innovation, as they seek to deepen ties between their nations. Their talks reflected efforts to coordinate responses to regional and international challenges at a time of increasing geopolitical tensions.

Russia proposed elevating its bilateral visa-free arrangement with China by making it permanent, a move aimed at facilitating greater people-to-people exchanges and economic ties between the two countries. The proposal signals Moscow's interest in removing barriers to cross-border movement and strengthening practical cooperation.

During their meeting, Xi and Putin also addressed the Ukraine conflict, though details of their specific discussions remained limited. The conversation underscored the two nations' alignment on several strategic issues even as international pressure mounts on Russia over the ongoing war.

The meeting came as part of broader SCO proceedings, where regional powers gather to discuss security and cooperation matters. For India and other regional players, the deepening Russia-China partnership carries implications for the balance of power in Asia and beyond.