“China is willing to continue strengthening strategic coordination with Belarus, support each other resolutely, promote pragmatic cooperation, and continue deepening our bilateral relations,” state news agency Xinhua quoted Xi as saying.
Lukashenko arrived in China’s capital on Sunday for a two-day visit, aiming to discuss “trade, economic, investment and international cooperation” with its major partner in Asia.
The trip comes amid Western criticism about Belarus’ involvement in Russia’s war with Ukraine and Western scepticism about China’s role in the conflict. According to the state-owned Belarusian Telegraph Agency, Lukashenko told Xi Belarus was “a reliable partner” and would “remain so”
Lukashenko also lauded Xi’s “concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind”. “Unlike Western countries that are trying to tear everything apart, you have set the single goal for all,” he said.
Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted the growing global importance of Central Asia during his remarks at the Astana Think Tank Forum. He noted that the region's current situation is markedly different from a decade ago, with countries actively engaging in collaboration across various fields.
Tensions between Iran and Israel have escalated significantly in recent times, with both nations on high alert for a potential military confrontation.
The European Union held its first summit with the Gulf states on Wednesday, seeking new economic allies. European Commission Ursula von der Leyen urged the members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to use their influence to bring peace to Ukraine.