Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to build a much closer diplomatic relations now with China, after he came under intense pressure and criticisms over Russia's interference in Eastern Ukraine.

This is why on Thursday, Putin is playing host to a close aide of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

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His guest is Li Zhanshu, who is the head of the General Office of the Communist Party of China.

Their meeting comes as Russia's relations with the West continue to weaken, prompting analysts to say that it is actually at its worst since the Cold War.

Earlier this week, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Chinese President Xi Jingping himself, will travel to Moscow on May 9.

Xi is attending the activities for the 70^th anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe.

On China's part, it has yet to confirm the announcement of the Russian Foreign Ministry.

Other heads of state, mainly from Asia and the former Soviet republics and Latin America, will also join the event.

Xi had previously stated that Western powers should not undermine the important role that Russia plays in the global economy.

The Chinese leader said this at the time the European Union and the United States have imposed sanctions on Russia for its involvement in the Ukraine separatist movement.

After assuming the presidency in 2013, the first capital Xi visited was Moscow.

In response to Putin's invitation, Xi also attended the Winter Olympics in Sochi.

Russia and China vote as one in the United Nations Security Council.

The two countries agree on several international diplomatic issues, including the conflict in Syria.

But China does not approve of Russia's actions in Ukraine.

China says, until now, it respects Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Nevertheless, Chinese government officials have said the Western powers should also hear the legitimate security concerns of Russia.

TagsRussia