As the global political landscape continues to shift and transform, it is noteworthy to observe the deepening ties between Russia and China, intensifying against the backdrop of the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Acclaimed by Russia’s Putin and China’s No.2 official, this unprecedented synchronization of interests is increasingly cementing their positions in the international sphere while raising various concerns.
At the forefront of this development is Russian President Vladimir Putin and China’s second-highest-ranking official, Premier Li Keqiang. Sharing views on international matters and deepening economic cooperation, these diplomatic leaders have incessantly praised the expanding ties between their two nations. Putin and Li uphold the mutual benefits of collaboration, perceiving it not only as an asset but also as a necessity in the contemporary world disorder.
Putin’s Russia, grappling with protracted western sanctions, regards the reinforcement of economic ties with China as a maneuver to extend its geopolitical influence and solidify its national security. With western markets becoming increasingly inaccessible due to contentious foreign policies like the annexation of Crimea and aggressive stance in Ukraine, China serves as an economic pivot for Russia. By tapping into China’s powerful domestic market, Russia hopes to cushion its economy from harsh sanctions and counteract dwindling infrastructure investments from the west.
On the other hand, China’s recognition of this deepening cooperation is intertwined with similar strategic interests. Given the pervasive challenges it faces, including heightened tensions with the U.S., the widening alliances, especially with a country as globally influential as Russia, can potentially offer China a diplomatic buffer. Additionally, China’s growing consumption needs, especially its demand for energy, are also well-served by Russia’s abundant natural resources, thereby cementing the economic symbiosis.
The increasing collaborative initiatives between the two states run parallel with the escalating Ukrainian war. As Russia faces international criticism and sanctions due to the crisis, the alliance with China imparts a much-needed balance to Russia’s foreign relations. While China has refrained from explicit support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine, the deepening ties implicitly demonstrate a stance. Moreover, the symbiosis becomes even more evident as China defends Russia’s interests in international platforms, presenting a united front against western values and norms.
Both Russia and China have further concretized their alliance in areas such as technology, finance, and military, departing from their Cold War differences. Technology transfer agreements between the two are indicative of this emerging trend, with Russia providing China access to its advanced weapons systems, while China shares its high-tech consumer electronics expertise. Similarly, in