The “unprecedented” partnership between Russia and China, as described by Vladimir Putin, appears to be one forged in the crucible of shared opposition to the West. Their common stance against US and EU policies is the political glue binding their rapidly expanding economic relationship.
Putin repeatedly emphasized their “common stand against discriminatory sanctions” as a cornerstone of the alliance. This shared grievance has provided a powerful motivation for them to align their foreign policies and coordinate their actions in international forums like the UN, SCO, and BRICS.
This opposition has also spurred practical innovation, most notably the shift away from the US dollar. This move was a direct, defensive reaction to the threat of being cut off from the Western financial system, which has now evolved into a proactive challenge to that system’s dominance.
As Putin prepares for the SCO summit, he will showcase this partnership as a model for others. The message is that shared opposition to Western pressure, when combined with deep economic cooperation, can create a powerful and resilient bloc capable of charting its own course in the world.