China’s top diplomat, Yang Jiechi, is due to arrive in Moscow on Monday for talks with Russian leaders amid heightened tensions between Beijing and Washington.

The trip comes as Beijing continues to criticize the US for its policies on a range of issues, including trade, technology, and territorial disputes.

The two countries have also been at odds over the Biden administration’s decision to sanction Chinese officials over human rights abuses in Xinjiang and Tibet.

During his visit, Yang is expected to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, and other senior officials.

The talks are expected to focus on a variety of issues, including China’s role in the global economy, the security situation in the Asia-Pacific region, and the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

Yang’s visit is seen as an effort by Beijing to strengthen ties with Moscow and boost its international standing amid a growing rift with Washington.

The US and China have been locked in an increasingly bitter trade war since 2018, and relations have deteriorated further since President Joe Biden took office in January.

The Biden administration has taken a tougher stance on Beijing, including imposing sanctions on Chinese officials and companies, and has also criticized China’s human rights record.

China, meanwhile, has accused the US of interfering in its internal affairs and has responded to US sanctions with retaliatory measures.

The visit by Yang is expected to be seen as a sign that Beijing is looking to cultivate closer ties with Moscow and other countries, as it seeks to counter US pressure.