Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu hosted a top Chinese general and defence delegation in Moscow Wednesday, for talks to “deepen” military cooperation with Beijing as Russia’s troops fight on in Ukraine. Shoigu welcomed Zhang Youxia, a high-ranking general and vice chairman of Beijing’s Central Military Commission in a red carpet ceremony in Moscow. “We, unlike some aggressive Western countries, are not creating a military bloc. Relations between Russia and China are an example of strategic cooperation, based on trust and respect,” Shoigu said, according to a statement published by his ministry. “I am sure that today’s meeting will be another step to deepen the multi-profile links between our countries and military departments,” he added. He said the pair will discuss “further steps to develop bilateral cooperation in the defence sphere.” The Chinese official will meet President Vladimir Putin later on Wednesday, the Kremlin said. His visit came three weeks after Putin went to Beijing in a rare trip abroad. Russia has bolstered ties with its Chinese neighbour in the last year, seeking allies during its dragging Ukraine campaign. Putin and China’s Xi have sought to present a united front against the West.