Central Asia expert Ch. Esengul: “The Sino-Russian rivalry may weaken these countries against the West”
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Sino-Russian partnership in Central Asia gained a more perspective and comprehensive dimension. According to many observers, Russian-Chinese relations in the region have been characterized by an informal division of the sphere of influence, with Russia leading military and security issues and China acting as an engine of economic growth, particularly within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.