Russia and China have agreed to widen cooperation as the rift between Moscow and Western countries grows over the invasion of Ukraine.

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov is visiting China's inland Anhui province for a foreign ministers' conference on Afghan issues. He met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Wednesday.

The two exchanged views on the Ukraine situation. Russia's Foreign Ministry says Lavrov explained the developments with Russian forces, while Wang reiterated his opposition to sanctions other countries have imposed on Russia.

Lavrov told Wang that international relations are at a turning point in history. He called for building a "multipolar, just and democratic world order".

Chinese foreign ministry later said Lavrov told Wang that Russia will continue holding ceasefire talks with Ukraine and also maintain communication with members of international society.

Lavrov's visit to China is the first by a Russian Cabinet minister since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his visit to Beijing for the opening of the Winter Olympics. The two leaders issued a joint statement on strengthening relations.

Observers say Russia hopes the latest talks demonstrate ties between Moscow and Beijing remain unshaken after the invasion of Ukraine, as it seeks additional support from China.