China says it is ready to ‘expand practical cooperation’ with Russian army

China has signalled it is ready to strengthen its partnership with the Russian army in a move that is bound to raise alarm bells for the rest of the world.

China says it is ready to “expand practical cooperation” with the Russian army in a move that signals the alliance between Beijing and Moscow is set to become even stronger.

Coming off Chinese president Xi Jinping’s recent visit to the Russian capital for a lavish World War II Victory Day parade, the defence ministry was asked on Thursday how China would promote military-to-military ties with Russia.

The relationship was “operating at a high level”, defence ministry spokesman Jiang Bin responded.

“The Chinese military stands ready to work with the Russian side to further deepen strategic mutual trust, step up strategic communication, and expand practical cooperation,” he then added.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin shake hands during their meeting before the Victory Day military parade in Moscow on May 9. Picture: Photo host agency RIA Novosti via AP

The two countries have drawn closer in recent years, including since Moscow launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Mr Xi’s trip to Russia last week drew ire from Kyiv’s allies, who have accused Beijing of giving Moscow economic and political cover to wage a war of aggression.

Beijing says it is a neutral party to the conflict and has made repeated efforts for peace.

Putin and Jinping at the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two. Picture: AFP

China and Russia “expanding practical cooperation” would “enrich the content of China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era”, Jiang continued.

He also said that they would also “contribute to maintaining and strengthening global strategic stability”.

Following a lengthy meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on his trip, Xi said China’s ties with Russia brought “positive energy” to a turbulent world.

He added that both nations stood firm against “hegemonic bullying” -- an apparent swipe at the US.

Meanwhile, Putin told reporters he and Mr Xi had held “traditionally warm, friendly” talks and addressed the Chinese leader as his “dear friend”.

--With AFP