‘Old Friends’ and New Pipelines: China and Russia Double Down as Kim Arrives

Xi called Putin an “old friend,” while Putin described Xi as a “dear friend,” spotlighting unusual warmth in statecraft. Their talks produced more than 20 cooperation documents.
Kim Jong-un’s armored train arrival, accompanied by Kim Ju-ae, signaled North Korea’s high-profile return to the Chinese stage.
The Victory Day parade will fill Beijing with soldiers, tanks, and aircraft, marking a historic anniversary with contemporary messaging.
Putin met Robert Fico to discuss energy and Ukraine, underscoring fissures within Europe over sanctions and security.
The Power of Siberia 2 pipeline through Mongolia will deliver 50bn cubic meters of gas annually to China for 30 years, complemented by China’s new visa-free regime for Russians from 15 September.