BEIJING’S “POLAR SILK ROAD” – THE LATEST MOVE TO A CHINESE SIBERIA

[TTP views China’s seizure of Russia’s Eastern Siberia as an inevitability – the only question is how many years in will take. See Chinese Siberia from November 2006. Here Dr. Sukhankin reveals the latest development in Beijing’s strategy.]
An article published on October 5 by the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC) discusses Russia’s strategy in the Arctic region and the evolving role of China therein (Russiancouncil.ru, October 5).
Among other points, the piece notes that “the Arctic region is one of the key elements of Russian national security” and “one of two regions where Russia plays the role of a great power.” At the same time, the article alludes to “growing international competition in the region.”
It frames the United States and the European Union as Russia’s main regional competitors. But China is notably presented as a “strategic partner” for whom “the Arctic region is not a top strategic priority” and whose efforts to build up its naval strength are related to a desire to challenge the US, not Russia.
Russia’s assumptions appear questionable at best. Here’s why China is set to sideline Russia in its Arctic backyard.















