The provided text discusses the dynamic diplomatic activities of Russia and China in the context of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and other international forums. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Russia’s Diplomatic Resurgence:
Sergei Lavrov‘s Active Role: Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is highlighted as the most active diplomat in SCO-related diplomacy. ASEAN Regional Forum: Lavrov attended the forum in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, articulating russia’s position. This is seen as critically important given Russia’s perceived diplomatic isolation and “war criminal state” stigma following the invasion of Ukraine. His participation signals a more active diplomatic posture.
North Korea Visit: Lavrov visited Wonsan, North Korea, and met with Chairman Kim Jong Un to discuss enhancing strategic cooperation. He also participated in tourism promotion events, demonstrating solidarity and likely aiming to escape diplomatic isolation.
China Visit (SCO Meeting): Lavrov attended the SCO foreign ministers’ meeting in Tianjin, China. He met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and President Xi Jinping, coordinating President Putin’s upcoming visit to Beijing for the SCO summit and China’s victory Day parade.
India Meeting (RIC Revival): Lavrov met with India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, reaffirming their strategic partnership and proposing the revival of the Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral cooperation framework. This initiative aims to build a multipolar order and reshape the international system away from US dominance.
China’s Dynamic Diplomacy:
president Xi Jinping’s Travels: China’s President Xi Jinping has also been very active diplomatically, touring Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia, visiting Russia, and attending the China-central Asia Summit in Kazakhstan.
Countering Rumors: Thes trips are seen as a proactive diplomatic posture, especially considering rumors about his political downfall.
SCO meeting Engagement: Xi met with Lavrov and Jaishankar during the SCO foreign ministers’ meeting.
Potential Mediation Role: China’s success in improving relations with India, despite border tensions, could position it as a mediator in the India-Pakistan conflict, thus expanding its diplomatic influence.
SCO Summit Strategy: China appears to be using the SCO summit to diplomatically shift the international landscape.
Influence of US Foreign Policy:
Trump’s “Bizarre” foreign Policy: The text suggests that the diplomatic moves by china and Russia are considerably influenced by the US’s foreign policy under President Trump.
Tariffs and Demands: Trump’s imposition of high tariffs and demands for concessions are mentioned.
* Pressure on Allies: trump’s pressure on US allies to increase defense spending and cost-sharing, and his “unpredictable hegemon” behaviour, are seen as contributing factors.
Overall Theme:
The article portrays a period of intensified diplomatic activity by russia and China, driven by a desire to counter perceived US unilateralism and reshape the global order towards a multipolar system. The SCO serves as a key platform for these efforts, with the RIC framework also being revived as a tool for this strategic realignment.
