In his pre-SCO summit remarks, Vladimir Putin implicitly stressed the importance of Russia’s trade with China as a vital economic lifeline in the face of Western sanctions. By highlighting the $100 billion growth in trade and China’s status as a top partner, he showcased Russia’s successful economic reorientation.
This partnership, which has reached an “unprecedented level,” has allowed Russia to continue exporting key commodities like oil and gas, providing crucial revenue that mitigates the impact of sanctions. Putin’s praise for China as a leading energy importer was a direct acknowledgment of this support.
Furthermore, the shift to trading in rubles and yuan has been critical in protecting these transactions from Western financial oversight and potential interference. This creates a secure channel for commerce that is essential for Russia’s economic stability.
Putin’s message to the SCO is that deep economic partnerships, like the one Russia enjoys with China, are the key to weathering geopolitical storms. He is presenting a model of mutual support and economic integration as the foundation for national resilience in a contentious world.