Russia and China

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This book explores the pragmatic and stable relationship between Russia and China, characterizing it as a political "marriage of convenience." The foundation of their bilateral relations lies in shared interests, reflecting the essence of foreign policy. Notably, the most enduring partnerships often stem from such pragmatic arrangements. Over the past 25 years, the complex and successful dynamics between the two nations have been challenging to analyze theoretically. Both Russian and Chinese elites adopt a realist approach in their foreign policies, making the neorealist framework particularly relevant for studying their interactions. Throughout this period, China has gained a multidimensional advantage over Russia, yet their relationship does not strictly adhere to traditional power politics. China understands its limits and avoids extremes, aiming to establish a long-term, stable partnership that benefits both sides, albeit with China reaping slightly greater rewards. Russia does not necessarily lose in this arrangement; it simply gains less in this asymmetric deal. Consequently, a new model of bilateral relations emerges, described as an “asymmetric win-win” formula, reminiscent of the historical modus vivendi established after the Nerchinsk treaty in the 17th century.