The China-Russia Relationship: The Dance of the Dragon and the Bear

This book takes a new approach to examining the relationship between China and Russia, departing from the standard debate over whether the relationship is a true strategic partnership or merely an axis of convenience. Instead, the book argues that the best way to gain an understanding of ties between Beijing and Moscow is to watch how they interact “on the ground” in regions of the world where they both have important interests at stake. It provides an in-depth analysis of Chinese-Russian interaction in Africa, Central Asia, and East Asia, as well as an analysis of China’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The picture of the relationship that emerges portrays its dynamic, complex, and contingent nature, and reveals areas of convergence and divergence between these two powers. In doing so, it provides a new perspective useful to both scholars and policymakers.