A senior Russian diplomat says Moscow and Beijing have to counter any attempt by the United States to contain their countries.

Sergei Shoigu, Russian Security Council Secretary, made the remarks during a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Tuesday.

He said that the most important task by Beijing and Moscow is to counter “the policy of ‘dual containment’ of Russia and China pursued by the United States and its satellites.”

US President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose steep tariffs on China and other countries. Washington regards China as its biggest competitor and has long considered Russia as a “threat.”

Chinese diplomat Wang also said that Beijing and Moscow needed to stand together in the face of the world’s complex situation.

“The more complex the international situation becomes and the more external challenges arise, the more the two sides need to stand firm in solidarity and coordination to safeguard common interests.”

Vladimir Putin of Russia has repeatedly called China “an ally.” Putin and President Xi Jinping of China pledged a “new era” of partnership during a meeting back in May.

Analysts believe that  Beijing and Moscow’s close partnership is a force for good in the global system. They say both Putin and Xi are trying to create a more equal environment and inclusive global economic and political system.

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