By Georgi KantchevChinese leader Xi Jinping plans to visit Moscow next week for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin said Friday, showcasing the deepening relationship between Beijing and Moscow as the war in Ukraine drags into its second year. Several bilateral documents will also be signed during the visit, it said. The leaders will discuss the expansion of international cooperation between the two countries, the Kremlin said. As the Ukraine conflict has deepened Russia's international isolation, Beijing has provided diplomatic support to Moscow and an economic lifeline amid Western sanctions. China has scooped up Russian oil and gas and sold microchips and other advanced technologies that can have military uses.

Source: Wall Street Journal March 17, 2023 08:44 UTC