Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov visited Beijing for talks with his Chinese counterpart, Dong Jun, to strengthen military cooperation.

Moscow and Beijing have grown closer since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, causing concern in the West.

During the visit, both sides emphasized deepening strategic collaboration under the leadership of Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin.

Belousov highlighted their military partnership as key to global and regional stability, The Moscow Times has reported.

China and Russia have conducted several joint military drills, with recent naval exercises in the Sea of Japan marking their largest in 30 years.

Written by B.C. Begley