Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday praised the "all embracing" bilateral partnership with China during his latest visit to the country as both communist neighbors tired to foster a united front amid increasing tension with western nations.  

Seeking economic cooperation through energy deals was clearly high on Russian President's agenda, as he sealed host of energy deals with China on Saturday. The energy deal includes sale of stakes in several Russian projects to Chinese companies and joint investments in petrochemical projects in Russia. The joint investments will be led by Russia's top oil producer Rosneft and Chinese companies ChemChina and Sinopec.       

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Putin's focus on energy deals was understandable in the wake of low global oil prices that has led to a sharp devaluation of the ruble. This, coupled with Western sanctions have greatly affected the energy-dependent Russian economy.        

However, failure to implement past joint venture projects is likely to cast a shadow on these projects. Experts blame growing uncertainty in the Russian economy and increase in China's bargaining position due to its increasing economic might, have led to many projects stallingnin the past.

The Russian President discussed with Chinese leadership a host of political issues, including recent tensions in the South China Sea, the East China Sea, and the North Korea issue.

Earlier this year, China and Russia jointly decided to take on Western forces by weeding out all their differences on South China Sea and North Korea issues. The decision was reached after foreign ministers of both countries met in Beijing in April.

Military cooperation equally assumes an important role in the bilateral relationship. After lack of military cooperation during early 1990's, military cooperation has rebounded in recent years, as the two countries seek to cope with Western domination.

Although there are no confirmed reports, enhancing military cooperation is sure to have figured into Putin's discussions with Chinese leadership.

TagsRussia and China, china, Vladimir Putin, Vladimir Putin China