Chinese President Xi Jinping has assured Russian President Vladimir Putin of close cooperation during his visit to Beijing. A steady development of Sino-Russian relations contributes to peace, stability and prosperity in the region and the world, Xi said in talks with Putin on Thursday, according to state media. China is Russia’s most important ally, which is largely isolated internationally due to its invasion of Ukraine. Beijing serves as an important trading partner for the country, which has been targeted by multiple Western sanctions. Germany, the US and other supporters of Ukraine accuse…