The world is watching with bewilderment as Chinese President Xi Jinping visits Russia. It is surprising that one of the largest economies in the world, aspiring to be a superpower, is approaching another global power that is currently in conflict with the West in the 21st century. Both powers are against the West-led international system and the laws that come with it. The conflict with Ukraine, which was supposed to end within a few months, has turned into a protracted war, draining Russia’s resources, both human and material. Chinese involvement in this conflict could significantly shift the course of the war. This visit raises questions about China’s foreign policy and its intentions in the region. It is unclear whether China is seeking to align itself with Russia against the West or if it is merely seeking to expand its economic and political influence in the region. Regardless of its intentions, China’s involvement in the conflict could have significant implications for the region and the world. As the two powers come together, it is essential to consider the potential consequences of their alliance. The West may view this as a threat to its interests, and tensions could escalate further. On the other hand, China and Russia may see this as an opportunity to challenge the existing world order and establish a new one.
Building up economic cooperation
China a month before the start of the skirmishes between Russia and Ukraine in February had signed a No-limit partnership which mentions there are no grey areas in the relationship between Russia and China there would be a partnership at all levels. China had become the biggest consumer of Russian gas and oil after the west had imposed sanctions on Russian oil and gas cutting Russian revenue from those trades by a great margin and also becoming the biggest trade partner of Central Asia which is under the periphery of the influence of Russia. There is also a discussion of the beginning of the Construction of the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline which passes through Mongolia to China enhancing the capacity of the former Power of Siberia 1, which isn’t still been approved by the Mongolian government. Local currencies like the Yuan and Rouble have been promoted for trade. Russian Premier states China will pay Gazprom for gas in national currencies, based on a 50-50 split between the Russian rouble and Chinese yuan. All these can be clubbed up as an indicator of an Efficient bilateral relationship and the degree of growth is off the charts taking into consideration that the relationship had strengthened only after Putin became the president.
China’s Role
Even after the Signing up of the No-limits partnership, there hadn’t been any talks of the Supply of Weaponry to Russia from the Chinese side.US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was clear about the repercussions that would be on China in case of arms and ammunition transfer, also said China’s best option to build the elation would be by making Russia from prolonging the war. There are chances of another wave of sanctions by the west on Beijing if it goes former. China would always try to play by putting forth its interest and would strive to get befits out of it rather than being altruistic. China’s entry to Moscow as a ‘mission of peace’ by acting as a peacemaker between Iran and Saudi Arabia, showing the world aspiration of China to act beyond its region. China’s engagement with Putin has been growing since Xi Jinping, Putin calls Xi “dear old friend” showing the affinity they have. For this reason, China can direct the conflict into 3 pathways which produce different outcomes. One, China can act as a proper mediator of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. China mentioned the importance of preserving the sovereignty of the state and National security, directed towards Ukraine and Russia respectively, indirectly showing both are victims of each other’s actions. From now on China can observe the Events unfolding in the war and consider it as a ‘real life simulation’ of what the west would do if China attempted to seize Taiwan and draw lessons from it. Third, China can encourage Russia to Resume the war by supplying them the Artilleries and other machines and prolonging the war to an extent. Even if China started skirmishes in the South China sea West won’t be wanting to be a part of it because it exhausts its resources. Negotiations paved the way for Hoult to the conflict or a cease-fire might be a great strategic win for NATO and China and a big hit to Russia since they failed to achieve its objectives and might also cause cracks in the Sino-Russian Relation.
Foreseeable future
President Xi Jinping’s visit to Russia is a significant event that could have far-reaching consequences. It is essential to monitor the situation closely and consider the potential implications of this alliance. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it is crucial to maintain stability and avoid conflicts that could have disastrous consequences. Right now the attention being directed towards Russia , China Can act in a way that fulfills its interest since the Chinese economy is just bouncing back after a drop. China had already put forward a 12-point peace plan for the cease-fire between Russia and Ukraine. The peace plan never talks anything about Russian troops withdrawing from gained territories making the Ukrainians and the west ponder whether China executing ‘Constructive peace or Constructing War’. West until now bust with providing Ukraine with More aid and completely ignoring the peace talks that benefit both sides. China accomplishing that milestone would echo China’s power beyond its region making it a ‘reliable’ extra-regional power and triumph for Chinese foreign policy.
