International
China and Russia Strengthen Ties in Shifting Global Landscape
In a rapidly changing world, the alliance between China and Russia is emerging as one of the most significant geopolitical relationships of the 21st century. Since the declaration of a “no limits” partnership in 2022, their military cooperation has intensified, with joint exercises in strategic areas, notably in the East China Sea and Sea of Japan (often referred to as the East Sea).
On the economic front, bilateral trade has exploded, reaching an impressive record of $240 billion in 2023, up substantially from $147 billion in 2021. This dynamic is characterized by Russia’s growing dependence on China, which has become its leading trading partner, whereas Russia is only China’s sixth-largest supplier, particularly after the Western sanctions following the invasion of Ukraine.
Diplomatically, the alliance is growing stronger through institutions such as the UN Security Council, where they mutually support each other’s positions, often in opposition to those of the United States. Their cooperation extends to platforms such as the BRICS group, which is championing an alternative to Western financial institutions.
