Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing on Tuesday, on the eve of a major military parade, for what was at least his 45th meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping since both leaders have held power. Their close ties reflect the alliance Russia and China have forged against the West.

Russian president will attend SCO summit and be guest of honour at WWII parade during ‘absolutely unprecedented’ four-day China trip.

The talks come with steep US tariffs imposed on India and Putin under threat of sanctions over Ukraine.