On Wednesday, Vladimir Putin met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing.
According to Express, several senior Russian officials took part in the visit, including Rosatom chief Alexei Likhachev.
Rosatom is Russia’s state-owned nuclear energy company and was part of Putin’s delegation in China.
During the meeting, Xi Jinping spoke about the need for stability in the Middle East to protect global trade and energy supplies.
Also read: How a handful of spinach every morning can affect your body
At the same time, Russia is seeking a role in negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, Express reported.
Online reactions
Videos of Putin’s arrival quickly spread on social media. Several commentators noted that the Russian president appeared stiff in his movements during the official welcome ceremony.
According to Express, some observers also believed that Putin received a superior reception than Donald Trump did during his most recent visit to China.
There has long been speculation about Putin’s health, but Russia has not publicly commented on the rumors.
Also read: Tourists warned after measles outbreak hits holiday region
Detail sparked debate
The debate intensified after images emerged from the red carpet outside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. In the footage, Putin appeared to walk slowly and with a stiff right leg.
Express also reported that Putin appeared uncomfortable while stepping out of his presidential aircraft earlier in the day alongside Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Sources: Express.
Also read: Trump claims he is “aging in reverse” – critics raise questions
Also read: These symptoms of high blood pressure can be life-threatening