Russian President Vladimir Putin has underscored the importance of strengthening ties with China, saying the two nations will stand together against what he called “discriminatory” sanctions in global trade.

In a written interview with China’s Xinhua news agency released on Monday, Putin said Russia and China oppose measures that undermine international social and economic development and will continue efforts to lower trade barriers between them.

Putin is set to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin starting Tuesday, before traveling to Beijing for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. 

He will also take part in China’s Victory Day parade marking its 80th anniversary, where he will attend as a guest of honor.