China’s Xi, Russia’s Putin reinforce ties in video call

Beijing, Feb 4 (AP) Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed his country’s growing economic cooperation with China in a video call with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday. The virtual meeting came in the middle of a series of meetings between Xi and Western leaders who have sought to boost ties with China despite differences over Russia’s war in Ukraine. European leaders have pressed China for years to end its support for Russia. China has continued to trade with Russia, providing some relief from Western economic sanctions. “I would like to once again assure you of firm support for our shared…