JRL NEWSWATCH: “Putin lauds China infrastructure initiative, warming ties” – AP

April 26, 2019 JRL Russia List China, CIS, Customs Union, Eurasian Union, Economy, Business, Investment, Trade, Far East, Siberia, APEC

Map of China and Environs, adapted from image at cdc.gov

“… Putin praised China’s Belt and Road infrastructure initiative … underscoring warming ties between the neighboring powers. Putin’s comments … to a forum in Beijing appeared to downplay the potential for tensions between China and Russia. … [and] reflect Beijing and Moscow’s shared resistance to U.S. global influence. The Belt and Road is rapidly expanding China’s economic footprint in Central Asia, Moscow’s traditional sphere of influence. … the navies of the two countries will start several days of joint drills next week. … Putin told three-dozen leaders … that the Belt and Road is ‘intended to strengthen the creative cooperation of the states of Eurasia.’ …”