Maximilian Ohle, Richard J. Cook, Zhaoying Han & Rysbek Mamazhanov
vol. VIII(1)
Pages 45-62
Abstract: The contemporary topos of Sino-Russo relations is one of
cooperation and entente. The alternative view is that Russia and China
are now locked in a long-term structural peer rivalry over the Eurasian
rim-lands, both offering various net benefits to subordinate states in the
area in order to induce them into their respective orders. Traditionally a
Kremlin-centric order’s stomping ground, this theatre is undergoing a
major systemic change as China’s Belt and Road Initiative penetrates
deeper into the region. Simultaneously, Russia is concerned with
maintaining its great power status. It has been essentially reestablishing
a sequel political and economic order to fill the void left by
the Soviet Union – with the inception of the Commonwealth of
Independent States and its related sub-institutions such as the Eurasian
Economic Union (economics), as well as the Collective Security Treaty
Organisation (security). This situation has left Kyrgyzstan caught in the
middle, yet also in a position to seek the best set of net benefits. Taking
into consideration David A. Lake’s hierarchy formula, this paper will
focus on Bishkek’s hedging stratagem – searching for the best range of
net benefits from both prevalent powers in the region – with regards to
their interests and preferences. Additionally, the paper will identify an
overlapping dual order arrangement for the region as Russia retains a
dominant security position and China provides various economic
development projects (BRI), needed by states such as Kyrgyzstan.
Keywords: Kyrgyzstan, Russia, China, Regional Power Hedging,
Hierarchy
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