Sputnik is reporting live from Beijing, where Russian President Vladimir Putin is currently meeting with Asian heads of state during the third Belt and Road forum.
Putin is anticipated to hold meeting with Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong, Prime Minister of Thailand Srettha Thavisin, Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith during the gathering.
Vladimir Putin repeatedly emphasized the Global South's significance in light of the emerging multipolar world order and pledged to strengthen Russian connections with Asian nations. During the 8th Eastern Economic Forum held in Vladivostok in September, he highlighted that Russia's ''trade with countries in the Asia-Pacific region rose by 13.7%'' and further increased by ''18.3% during the first half of this year.''
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