"Putin's Visit to China: Strengthening Energy Cooperation and Partnerships"

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Beijing this week to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and attend a forum marking 10 years of China's Belt and Road Initiative. The visit comes amid concerns from the US and EU about the close relationship between China and Russia, particularly in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Russia has increased its energy exports to China as it faces Western sanctions. The European Union is expected to hold a summit with China later this year. The forum in Beijing will be attended by representatives from over 100 countries, but it takes place against a backdrop of economic challenges for China. Additionally, the whereabouts and safety of Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu are unknown. This will be Putin's second international trip since the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for his arrest in March.