The Contemporary Sino-Russian Strategic Partnership: Challenges and Opportunities for the Twenty-First Century
2010; Taylor & Francis; Volume: 6; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1080/14799855.2010.507153
ISSN1555-2764
Autores Tópico(s)Central Asia Education and Culture
ResumoAbstract Today many aspects of the Sino-Russian relationship are positive. The "strategic cooperative partnership" is supported by the Treaty for Good Neighborliness, Friendship, and Cooperation, as well as membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and a shared commitment to a multipolar world. Nevertheless, the economic foundation of the relationship is weak, energy cooperation has not reached its potential, and the two states have competing interests in Central Asia. Thus, this article argues that although the Sino-Russian relationship is multifaceted and based on practical considerations, there are nevertheless factors that limit the relationship. China and Russia have links with the West that sometimes interfere in their relationship with each other. Moreover, the legacy of history remains in the background of the relationship. Finally, Russia's demographic decline, combined with China's economic growth, creates questions for Russians regarding their long-term security vis-à-vis China. The authors would like to express appreciation to the Institute of National Security Studies at the US Air Force Academy and Director's Sponsored Research Program at the Marshall Center for providing support for travel to China, Central Asia, and Russia during summer 2009 to complete the research for this project. The authors would also like to thank Raymond Truong, Scott Urbom, Wang Ning, Zhao Huasheng, Su Changhe, Gregory Gleason, Igor A. Zevelev, Barry Savage, and our anonymous reviewer for comments and suggestions. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the United States Air Force Academy, George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies, the US Department of Defense, the German Ministry of Defense, or the US or German governments. Notes 1. S. C. M. 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