Public Mention at the Diplomatic Conference
[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Russian President Vladimir Putin publicly mentioned the possibility of forming a military alliance with China. This statement has drawn significant attention as it comes amid the emerging 'new Cold War' structure between the US and Russia-China.
According to the Associated Press on the 22nd (local time), President Putin said during a video conference with foreign policy experts hosted by the Russian expert group 'Valdai Club' that "a military alliance between Russia and China is not necessary at the moment, but the possibility cannot be completely ruled out in the future."
He continued, "We do not need it (a military alliance between Russia and China), but theoretically, it is quite possible," he responded.
Until now, Russia and China have officially denied the possibility of forming an alliance, making President Putin's public remarks even more noteworthy.
He stated, "Undoubtedly, cooperation with China is strengthening the defensive capabilities of the Chinese military," adding, "Military cooperation between the two countries could become closer in the future."
He also said, "We will see how it develops over time," and "I will not rule it out," thus not denying the possibility of a future military alliance.
The AP reported that President Putin also referred to joint military exercises between Russia and China as a sign of strengthened cooperation between the two countries. China participated in large-scale military exercises conducted by Russia this year as well as last year.
TASS news agency also reported that during the conference, President Putin said, "The relationship between Russia and China has reached an unprecedentedly high level, and we have deep mutual trust," adding, "We are always looking for opportunities to move forward."
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