(MENAFN) The Kremlin has denied that Russia is redirecting its foreign policy toward the East, following President Vladimir Putin’s recent four-day visit to China. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Friday that Moscow’s trip should not be interpreted as a formal “eastward turn.”

“You can’t put it that way,” Peskov said. “Nothing has been formalized, and it is impossible to formally record any kind of turns. Furthermore, Russia is not planning to turn anywhere, that would be a mistake. In fact, it has already always been in the East.”

He added that Russia continues to strengthen its strategic partnership with China, as well as relationships with other regional countries and the Global South. Peskov noted that global transformations are encouraging these states to align around a shared vision for reforming the international system.

Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Putin reiterated that Russia “looks both ways,” maintaining connections globally while emphasizing economic opportunities with the US. He highlighted that American businesses could benefit from joint projects if Washington permits and pointed to potential collaboration in developing the Arctic, requiring only a “political decision.”

Meanwhile, Moscow and Beijing have signed new agreements covering energy, governance, and travel. Putin confirmed expanded gas exports to China via the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, while China announced visa-free entry for Russians starting September 15, with reciprocal arrangements planned by Moscow.

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