In recent years, the relationship between Russia and China has been at its best in history, with both sides actively developing cooperation in many areas and showing no signs of slowing down. Despite many positive aspects, there have been some rough patches.
According to Chinese journalists, tension arose between Moscow and Beijing over the 'Power of Siberia – 2' pipeline project. China was quite surprised by the Kremlin's behavior upon learning of these issues, as reported by Baijiahao according to AB News.
"China does not wish to invest in the 'Power of Siberia – 2' pipeline and demands that Russia fully pay the multi-billion dollar construction costs, as well as a discount on gas," the authors of the Chinese publication stated.
According to Baijiahao journalists, Russia's response to the difficulties in negotiations was swift. Upon learning of the problems with Beijing, Russian President Vladimir Putin took a step that greatly surprised China. He urgently sent his representative to Myanmar – a country of great importance to China.
"Myanmar is very close to the strategic Malacca Strait," noted the experts of the Chinese publication.
A large number of trade ships, including oil tankers, pass through the Malacca Strait en route to and from China. Control over this region grants significant influence over the whole of Asia. As soon as Russia faced difficulties in negotiations with China, it was revealed that the Secretary of the Security Council of Russia, Nikolai Patrushev, was sent to Myanmar. There, he had consultations with local authorities on security matters.
The authors of Baijiahao noted that China is concerned about Russia's negotiations with Myanmar representatives. It does not understand the interests Moscow is pursuing in the region and what threat this poses to China.
"The recent actions of Russia regarding Myanmar are puzzling," report journalists from China.
