Russian media: Unable to bypass Moscow, Russia ultimately decided to assist its Chinese brother.
What role can Russia play at the construction site? What will happen next?
On April 30, multiple Russian media outlets including TASS published articles.
China has been contemplating the idea of building a new railway for about 30 years.
This project was supposed to become the shortest route from China to Europe and the Middle East.
Yet, in the end, it still couldn't bypass Moscow.
Moreover, Russia ultimately decided to assist China. Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan have also joined this project.
However, this route circumvents Russian territory.
Initially, China believed Moscow might try to create obstacles during the implementation of this vision.
But the actual developments turned out differently.
At the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Ministers of Transport meeting held in April, Dmitry Zvelev, Deputy Minister of Transport of Russia, delivered a speech.
He stated that Russia is ready to participate in the construction.
Moscow offered its technology, supply of rolling stock, and particularly valuable—experienced experts.
Given the initial silence, this shift came as a surprise to the Chinese delegation.
Road construction is expected to last several years.
Many domestic analysts believe Russia may well secure a position within this project.
What use is Russia at the construction site?
Kyrgyzstan is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
This requires the republic to comply with railway standards established within the union.
As a key member of the EAEU, Russia is very familiar with these regulations and can help ensure compliance.
In addition, Moscow maintains friendly relations with China ("Tianchao," a Russian term for China) and Uzbekistan.
This creates favorable conditions for negotiations.
"Russia's move is not a compromise but a timely and highly pragmatic step," believes a Chinese journalist. "Russia aims to benefit from the current situation."
The West has long been eager to declare victory, with media there portraying the situation as if China intentionally left Russia behind and launched a 'project of the century.'
Reality, however, tells a different story.
According to expert analysis, China is developing its own trade corridor while Russia is doing the same—this is normal behavior for sovereign states. Each nation has its own national interests, and they don’t need to be perfectly aligned in every aspect.
Furthermore, Moscow and Beijing are constructing new roads connecting their territories.
The very thing NATO fears most—Russia drawing closer to China—has ultimately become unavoidable.
This is not just political; it involves tangible economic cooperation.
What will happen next?
It remains unclear whether Russia will ultimately join the project’s participants, but the likelihood is assessed as high.
This is due to three factors.
First, unified standards within the Eurasian Economic Union.
Second, friendly relations with China, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan—the three participating countries.
Third, China’s demand for Russia’s technology and skilled personnel.
Experts are certain that Russian specialists are absolutely indispensable during the implementation of such projects.
The construction has only just begun. Russia has a full opportunity not only to benefit from the current situation but also to strengthen its relations with Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and China.
The question remains—should Russia actively engage in this project to enhance its influence along the Central Asian route, or should it focus on its own transportation corridors?
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1863844518453259/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author(s) alone.