Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0009-0003-0207-8784
Date of Award
Summer 8-2024
Document Type
Thesis (Master's)
Department or Program
Master of Arts in Liberal Studies
First Advisor
Lynn Patyk
Second Advisor
David Rezvani
Third Advisor
Donald Pease
Abstract
This thesis examines the nature of the evolving relationship between Russia and China from 2018 to 2024, focusing on political, economic, and security aspects. The research aims to determine whether their interactions are an alliance, a partnership, or a more complex arrangement. The study takes a multidimensional approach: analyzing political cooperation through their participation in international organizations such as the UN, SCO, and BRICS, mutual support in UN voting records, diplomatic commitments, and regional political strategies. Economic cooperation is assessed through trade dynamics and analysis of official trade data. Security cooperation is examined by examining arms sales, joint military exercises, and military agreements. The results show that Russia and China exhibit significant political and economic cooperation. Their political alliance is evident in their joint participation in international organizations and mutual support, although regional political strategies exhibit nuanced behavior. Economic cooperation has intensified since 2022, marked by increased trade between countries. However, security cooperation, although growing, remains the least developed aspect of their relationship (although the data on their military cooperation is limited, this conclusion was drawn based on the accessible information, as credible data is either inaccessible or only partially available). The thesis concludes that Russia-China relations are more than just a partnership, but also fall short of a full-fledged alliance. Their cooperation is strongest in the political and economic spheres, with security cooperation gradually increasing, particularly since 2022.
Recommended Citation
Bolat, Aidana, "A NEW LOOK AT RUSSIA-CHINA RELATIONS: IMPLICATIONS, EXPECTATIONS AND REALITY" (2024). Dartmouth College Master’s Theses. 185.
https://digitalcommons.dartmouth.edu/masters_theses/185
