Chinese and Russian transport corridors and the belt and road initiative: prospects of Sino-Russian cooperation

Abstract

Relevance. The article discusses mutually beneficial cooperation between Russia and China within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and the role of Russia as a key link between China and the Eurasian Economic Union. The relevance of the study is determined by the need for a comprehensive analysis of the current state of transport cooperation between the countries with shared borders (Russia and China) and on a more global level. It is especially important to identify the priority areas of intergovernmental cooperation in the transportation sphere. 

Research objective. The study is aimed at evaluating the prospects of Sino-Russian transport cooperation in connection with the Belt and Road Initiative.

Data and methods. For comparative analysis, we use qualitative and quantitative indicators to consider the current state of Sino-Russian cooperation. Our research draws from the official statistical data of Russia and China and from the findings of the previous studies. 

Results. The research has shown that there is a steady trend for integration of Russian and Chinese crossborder infrastructure. In particular, the Economic Corridor China-Mongolia-Russia relies on the expansion and modernization of the railway and highway infrastructure. 

Conclusions. The connection of the Belt and Road Initiative with the Eurasian Economic Union will contribute to transport cooperation between China and Russia. Sino-Russian transport cooperation will develop not only on the state level but also on regional and local levels. The Belt and Road Initiative will enable Russia and China unite their transport infrastructure into a single network. Apart from the transport infrastructure, Sino-Russian cooperation also encompasses other aspects, such as training of specialists in logistics and transportation technologies.