The dynamics of Sino-Russian relations

When Russia emerged in early 1992 as the successor to the Soviet Union in the international arena, its foreign policy favored the West, but at the end of the year, it had shifted attention to the ''near abroad'' and the East. From that time on, relations between the People's Republic of China (PRC) and Russia have dynamically developed. Border problems have been largely resolved; economic ties have improved; and the military connections are not only substantial, but also alarming. Along with these obvious achievements, difficulties and problems still remain. However, Sino-Russian relations are by and large moving from full normalization to ''constructive partnership.'' This improved relationship will certainly influence the Asia-Pacific region as well as the rest of the world.