World at Risk of “Law of the Jungle” Return: Xi to Putin

The Business Times (Singapore)
The Business Times (Singapore)May 20, 2026

Why It Matters

The comments signal strengthened Sino‑Russian economic and geopolitical alignment that reduces Western financial influence and secures critical energy flows to China, complicating Western efforts to pressure either country. Closer ruble‑yuan trade settlement and guaranteed energy supplies have material implications for global trade patterns, energy markets and geopolitical balance.

Summary

Chinese President Xi Jinping warned of a global slide back toward a “law of the jungle,” criticizing unilateralism and hegemonic behavior while urging construction of a shared-humanity framework and four global initiatives he said have broad international support, including from Russia. In remarks to President Vladimir Putin, Xi highlighted deep economic ties between the two countries, noting that most bilateral trade is settled in rubles and yuan and describing their energy partnership—oil, gas, LNG and coal supplies to China—as reliable and expanding. He framed the Sino‑Russian relationship as a model of comprehensive, strategic cooperation built on equality, mutual support and long‑term stability. Xi stressed that this partnership helps insulate both economies from external pressures and market volatility.

Original Description

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing on Wed (May 19), aiming to reinforce ties with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and make progress on a long-stalled energy project.
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