Xi spoke with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Monday, affirming the countries’ close ties on the third anniversary of his invasion of Ukraine and calling Moscow a “true friend” and “good neighbor,” according to a Chinese readout.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has held a call with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin and said he was pleased with Moscow’s efforts to hold a summit with the U.S. toward ending the war in Ukraine

Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed his relationship with Vladimir Putin on the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, signaling that Moscow’s detente with Washington wouldn’t deter ties.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping says China and Russia are true friends after speaking on the phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Xi reportedly said history and reality show the two countries are good neighbors and allies that support one another,