China's strategic convergence with Russia

This article examines the basis for China's strategic convergence with Russia in the current era, as well as assesses the viability of this convergence in the longer term. It will be argued that the convergence primarily reflects both Chinese and Russian concerns about the lone superpower's preponderance in the international system and its perceived intentions. These concerns relate to the military sphere as well as non-military considerations such as ideological differences. Ultimately, Sino-Russia strategic convergence exists as long as a huge capability gap persists between each partner and the United States. In the short-run at least, China and Russia will continue to balance against the United States.