Grand Strategies of Russia and China: common trends and potential confrontation

Abstract

The article focuses on the grand strategies of Russia and China, including both common and specific goals of two states. The current system of international relations is undergoing drastic changes as the status of the United States as a superpower and its global power are eroding. More regional poles of power appear, including Russia and China. Through the implementation of their grand strategies, they seek for their place in a changing world order. Both share the desire to form a more just, multipolar world order based on the supremacy of international law and norms, as well as advocate strengthening the role of the United Nations as the basis and guarantee of following the principles of international relations. Both countries oppose hegemony and the imposition of the norms of the “collective West” on other participants of the world order, interference in internal affairs and undermining the national security. At the same time, it is obvious that Russia and China also have differences in their geopolitical aspirations. China today is increasingly obtaining the features of a superpower, and some researchers believe that she may become one in the future. That is why there is a need to take into account the potential risks of China’s rising for Russian grand strategy and place in the world system in general. As a result, the article concludes that although the current Russian-Chinese relations are beneficial and provide broad support for both countries, it is necessary to analyse potential conflicts when building relations with a rising China.