Beijing described Russia as a “important member” of the G20 on Wednesday, after Washington raised the possibility of excluding Moscow from the group.
China has offered diplomatic protection to Russia, which has become increasingly isolated as a result of its invasion of Ukraine, and whose economy has been crippled by sanctions.

“The G20 is the main forum for international economic cooperation,” said Wang Wenbin, a spokesman for China’s foreign ministry. “Russia is a significant member, and no member has the authority to expel another.”

Following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Beijing for the Winter Olympics, the leaders of the two countries declared a “no limits” relationship.

Wang’s remarks come after a briefing by a top Washington security advisor on Tuesday, which indicated that the US will lead pressure on Russia to be barred from international forums because of its invasion of its neighbour.

“On the G20, I’ll just say this: We believe that Russia cannot conduct business as usual in international institutions and in the international community,” said Jake Sullivan, White House National Security Advisor.