Xi seeks tighter cooperation with Russia at Kremlin talks

Neither leader made any mention of the conflict in Ukraine, although the Kremlin said they would discuss China’s proposal to stop the fighting.

Xi Jinping promised to strengthen coordination with Russia at a Kremlin summit with President Vladimir Putin on the Chinese leader's first visit to Moscow since the beginning of Russia's assault on Ukraine.

Both nations seek allies to counteract Western power and the two are expected to sign a raft of economic cooperation agreements.

Mr. Putin called the talks "meaningful and frank" and said that Russia, which has been largely cut out of European markets because of sanctions, would be able to meet China's "growing demand" for energy.

"I propose strengthening our coordination and cooperation," Mr. Xi said between two rounds of talks in the Kremlin in footage shown on Russian state television.

Mr. Putin said he was "convinced that our multi-level mutually beneficial cooperation will strengthen further".

Neither leader made any mention of the conflict in Ukraine, although the Kremlin said they would discuss China's proposal to stop the fighting.

The Chinese leader's Moscow visit has been viewed as a boost for Mr. Putin, who is subject to an International Criminal Court warrant over accusations of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children.