Lukashenko Meets Xi in Beijing, Discusses Belt and Road Initiative

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, with both leaders emphasizing the strength and historical significance of their bilateral relationship. A Chinese government statement declared that relations between China and Belarus have withstood international challenges and are entering their most favorable period.

According to the statement, Xi urged both countries to mobilize resources across all sectors to advance the implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative and enrich practical cooperation. This meeting follows Lukashenko's recent engagement with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Belarus permitted Russia to use its territory for the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, though Lukashenko denies plans for direct involvement in the conflict.

Belarus claims to have deployed Russia's latest medium-range ballistic missile, the "Oreshnik," capable of carrying nuclear weapons. China has positioned itself as a neutral party in the Russia-Ukraine war but has effectively supported Moscow. Lukashenko last met with Xi in August 2025.