Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has stated that the military cooperation between Russia and China is not aimed at any third countries, but rather serves the interests of both nations. According to a report by RIA Novosti, Shoigu made these remarks following his negotiations with Zhang Youxia, the Deputy Chairman of China’s Central Military Commission, in Moscow on Wednesday, November 8th.
Shoigu explained that the Russian-Chinese relations in the military sphere are steadily developing in all directions. Regular joint activities are conducted by Moscow and Beijing to enhance operational and combat readiness on land, in the air, and at sea. The military forces of both countries practice various training and combat tasks of different complexities, as highlighted by the Russian Defense Minister.
Importantly, Shoigu emphasized that all these actions are not directed against any third countries but are carried out exclusively for the benefit of each other. He also underscored the significance of the friendly and trusting relationship between the leaders of Russia and China, Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping, in strengthening the Russian-Chinese strategic ties.
Additionally, it was recently announced that the trade turnover between Russia and China has grown by 27.7% in the span of 10 months.
These statements come in response to earlier remarks made by the U.S. Secretary of State, who claimed that Russia and China currently pose the “greatest threat to global order” on the planet. However, the Russian and Chinese leaders’ commitment to mutual interests and their cooperative military efforts demonstrate their intention to foster stability and enhance cooperation rather than destabilize the international order.
