The book explores the complex and evolving relationship between China and Russia over three centuries, highlighting both the understanding and misunderstandings that have shaped their interactions. Through a Russian perspective, Lukin delves into the historical nuances that have influenced perceptions of China, revealing insights that are often overlooked by outsiders. This examination provides a deeper appreciation of the dynamics between the two nations throughout history.
With many predicting the end of US hegemony, Russia and China's growing cooperation in a number of key strategic areas looks set to have a major impact on global power dynamics. But what lies behind this Sino-Russian rapprochement? Is it simply the result of deteriorated Russo–US and Sino–US relations or does it date back to a more fundamental alignment of interests after the Cold War? In this book Alexander Lukin answers these questions, offering a deeply informed and nuanced assessment of Russia and China’s ever-closer ties. Tracing the evolution of this partnership from the 1990s to the present day, he shows how economic and geopolitical interests drove the two countries together in spite of political and cultural differences. Key areas of cooperation and possible conflict are explored, from bilateral trade and investment to immigration and security. Ultimately, Lukin argues that China and Russia’s strategic partnership is part of a growing system of cooperation in the non-Western world, which has also seen the emergence of a new political community: Greater Eurasia. His vision of the new China–Russia rapprochement will be essential reading for anyone interested in understanding this evolving partnership and the way in which it is altering the contemporary geopolitical landscape.
The collection of articles delves into Russia's international relations and foreign policy, particularly focusing on its influence in Asia and the dynamics of Eurasian integration. Organized into three parts, the first section highlights key themes such as Russia's strategic role in global affairs and its interactions with neighboring regions, providing insight into Moscow's active engagement in shaping geopolitical landscapes.
