The Emerging Anti‐American Axis of Russia and China : Implications for A

Abstract

Russia and China may now be experiencing a pivotal moment in their post-Cold War relationship, which will determine whether their relations will shift from a non-committal partnership to a strategic alliance. Being the two strongest powers on the Eurasian landmass, the state of Russia – China relationship is of profound significance for the worlds largest continent, and particularly for its Asian wing where Beijing displays growing ambitions. The paper investigates the evolution of Russo‐Chinese strategic relationship – from its beginnings in the mid‐1990s to the present, focusing on the motives that have lately been driving Beijing and Moscow ever closer, above all their respective antagonisms with Washington. It then goes on to assess possible implications that Sino‐Russian entente may have for Asian security order. In conclusion, three basic scenarios are sketched of future configurations in the Russia‐China‐US strategic triangle and their impact on Asia.