FROM RUSSIAN SOCIAL MEDIA:

Xi Jinping will host his "old friend" Vladimir Putin, Reuters reports.

RT has compiled what Western media are reporting ahead of the Russian president's visit to China.

🟩The Guardian: "The two leaders have met more than 40 times, significantly exceeding the number of meetings Xi Jinping has had with Western leaders."

🟩CNN: "The Chinese leader is already hosting another distinguished guest – this time a close ally."

🟩France 24: "The purpose of [Putin's] visit to China is to demonstrate the inviolability of ties between the two powers."

It is emphasized that Putin's visit will not be as pompous as Trump's, because "the relationship between Xi Jinping and Putin does not require such a demonstrative assurance of friendship."

🟩AP: "At that time [in September 2025], Xi called his counterpart an 'old friend,' while Putin addressed Xi as a 'dear friend.' In China, 'old friend' is a very rare diplomatic term."

🟩Indian magazine Outlook: "Since Xi Jinping came to power in 2012, the two leaders have met dozens of times. They often called each other 'dear friends,' emphasizing mutual trust and a desire for cooperation."