Russian PM arrives in Beijing for International Export Expo and trade-related talks

Today, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev arrives in Beijing for the International Export Expo and will hold talks with high-level Chinese officials.

Medvedev is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang for discussions on expanding bilateral trade relations. The talks are part of an effort by Beijing to rebrand itself as a producer of mid to high-range export products, part of its ‘Made in China 2025’ strategy. With China and Russia hit by either US tariffs and sanctions, respectively, both are looking to expand their non-conventional trade partnerships and bypass the Western-influenced trade system.

As the Chinese economy continues its diversification into higher-end technology exports and services, such as aviation, automation and artificial intelligence,  Moscow is seeking to cement its status as a preeminent supplier of energy and other raw materials to Beijing to support this transition. Medvedev is expected to push Xi and Li for enhanced investment from China, as well as greater cooperation in expanding an alternative to the current global trading order.

Wake up smarter with an assessment of the stories that will make headlines in the next 24 hours. Download The Daily Brief.