Russia-China Strategic Partnership: Conceptual Foundations and Features

Abstract

This article examines the strategic partnership between Russia and China, focusing on historical development, the reasons for formation, and defining characteristics. A comparative analysis of the concept of «strategic partner» in Russian and Chinese academic literature reveals a shared understanding among scholars from both countries. Both emphasize the long-term nature, stability, equality, mutual benefit, and common interests. Notably, Russia and China face similar geopolitical security challenges. Their diplomatic development goals close, as both countries pursue independent foreign policies and advocate for the establishment of a fair and balanced international order, as well as the promotion of multipolarity in global governance. Since 1992, when Russia and China officially recognized each other as "friendly countries", their bilateral relations have steadily deepened. In 2019, the two nations established "comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era", accompanied by a significant strengthening of mutual strategic trust. Furthermore, Russia and China share a broad spectrum of common interests, continuously expanding the scope of cooperation and improving cooperation mechanisms. Despite the increasingly close ties between the two countries, both sides have repeatedly stressed that strategic partnership between Russia and China is not equivalent to a military alliance but represents a unique model of great-power relations. This partnership is rooted in principles of equality, mutual benefit, and mutual respect.