Russian President Vladimir Putin, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu attend a meeting in Moscow, Russia, April 16, 2023. (Sputnik/Pavel Bednyakov/Pool via REUTERS)

“We are working actively through our military departments, regularly exchange useful information, work together in military-technical cooperation, and hold joint exercises in different places in the Far East and Europe involving ground, naval and air forces,” said Putin.

“Undoubtedly, this is another crucial area that strengthens the extremely trusting, strategic nature of our relations,” he added. 

Li said his trip to Russia is his first overseas trip as a new defense minister to demonstrate the special nature and strategic importance of relations between China and Russia.

He noted that ties between Russia and China have surpassed the military-political alliances of the cold war era and this relationship is not against any third country. China will continue to cooperate with Russia at all levels for global development and prosperity, said Li.

During his 3-day visit, which will last until Tuesday, Li is scheduled to hold talks with his Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu to discuss the status quo, defense cooperation prospects and global and regional security issues.