During a press conference in Beijing alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his gratitude for China’s efforts in seeking a resolution to the Ukraine war. Putin acknowledged China’s neutral stance and its role as a potential mediator in the conflict. He also emphasized the growing economic ties between Russia and China, with bilateral trade conducted in rubles and yuan exceeding 90%. Despite concerns raised by the United States, Putin stated that Russian and Chinese banks and payment institutions will intensify their collaboration.