International Desk: The Kremlin said they would discuss a “comprehensive partnership and strategic co-operation”.

The visit comes as Beijing, an ally of Russia, has offered proposals to end the war in Ukraine, to which the West has given a lukewarm reception.

Western countries have warned Beijing against supplying Moscow with weapons.

Beijing’s foreign ministry said Mr Xi will be in Russia from 20 to 22 March at the invitation of Mr Putin.

China’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said China would uphold “an objective and fair position” on the war in Ukraine and “play a constructive role in promoting talks for peace”.

China’s peace proposals called for peace negotiations and respect for national sovereignty. But the 12-point document did not specifically say that Russia must withdraw its troops from Ukraine.

In February Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he wanted to meet Mr Xi – “I really want to believe that China will not supply weapons to Russia,” he said.

Some US media have reported that Mr Xi and Mr Zelensky will speak by phone after the Chinese leader’s visit to Moscow, but this is yet to be confirmed.

Kyiv has been pushing hard for some kind of engagement. Ukraine believes President Xi is making the visit to send a signal to the world that Russia has at least some allies.