Russia and China strengthen economic ties despite Western criticism.

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin visited Beijing and signed agreements on trade and sports cooperation with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. Mishustin stated that Western pressure was taking Russia-China ties to an "unprecedented high." Trade between the two nations reached a record $190bn last year, and bilateral trade has already reached $70bn so far this year. China has become Russia's top energy customer, and Russian energy supplies to China are expected to increase by 40% year on year in 2023. China holds the upper hand in the relationship with Russia, and its sway is growing as the world turns on Moscow over its war in Ukraine.