Putin, Xi tout Russia-China partnership at SCO Summit countering Western influence

At the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping emphasised the strengthening partnership between their nations and their commitment to countering Western influence.

Putin described the current phase of Russia-China relations as at their 'best', highlighting their role as a stabilising force globally. He noted the SCO has growing significance in shaping a "fair multipolar world order".

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Xi urged regional leaders to resist "external interference" and stressed the friendship between China and Russia amid global uncertainties.

“We should work together to resist external interference…and firmly grasp our own future and destiny, as well as regional peace and development, in our own hands,” Xi was quoted as saying. 

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The deepening ties between China and Russia across political and military domains have raised concerns in the United States and Europe.

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China has emerged as offering crucial support to Russia's economy amid severe sanctions while the two nations have also strengthened military cooperation. 

SCO members 

SCO was founded in 2001 by China, Russia and four Central Asian nations that were formerly part of the Soviet Union - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

The organisation's primary goals were to enhance regional security and foster economic cooperation among its members.

Over the years, the SCO has expanded its membership to include India, Pakistan and Iran.

On Thursday (July 4), during the latest summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Russia's close ally and western neighbour, Belarus, officially joined the bloc. 

(With inputs from agencies)