Direction of Russia's Long-term Policies
Russia, a country with a rich history dating back to the Czarist era, has had a cultural leaning towards Europe and expanded westward, reaching its greatest territorial extent as the Soviet Union in 1945. Today, one of its most significant land borders is shared with China, the world's most populous nation.
Historically, the relationship between Russia and China has been tense, particularly following Russia's annexation of some Chinese territories in the late 19th century. However, in recent years, this dynamic has shifted significantly. The two nations, both facing demographic declines, have found common ground and are currently relying on each other.
Siberia, a strategic priority for Moscow, is home to abundant natural resources and expanding agricultural potential. Fears of threats from the 1.4 billion Chinese living just south of the border have, in recent times, appeared increasingly unfounded. The idea of driving a wedge between Moscow and Beijing seems unlikely due to the strong relations between the two countries at the government level.
The collapse of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, and the loss of vast territories in Central Asia, the Caucasus, Ukraine, and the Baltics, is seen by President Vladimir Putin and widely regarded within Russia as a historic catastrophe. In response, Russia's current political doctrine includes a pivot to Asia, with Siberia being a key focus.
Meanwhile, countries like Iran, Turkey, and several Central Asian states have strategically engaged to improve relations with Russia and China, often through economic cooperation and security partnerships. Russia and China have deepened their joint stance against Western powers by increasing military collaborations, aligning politically in forums like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and promoting alternative economic structures such as the Belt and Road Initiative.
However, the strong presence of NATO in neighbouring countries is a source of ongoing concern for Moscow. Trust in the West has been lost for a number of reasons, according to Moscow's claims. Despite these challenges, the relationship between Russia and China is not the brittle alliance some Western capitals expect.
Russia, being a large country, stretches across 11 time zones from west to east. As both countries navigate their shared challenges and opportunities, their relationship will undoubtedly continue to evolve and shape the geopolitical landscape of the 21st century.
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