China on Russia’s intervention in Syria

Abstract:

China reacted positively to Russia’s military intervention in Syria. The Chinese government perceived it as an element of the global fight against terrorism, and emphasised the fact that Russia was acting in response to a request by the Syrian government. At the same time, Beijing argued that the Syrian conflict could not be resolved by military means and that a political compromise was necessary.

Beijing’s position on Russia’s intervention was motivated by China’s global and regional interests. In a situation of increased tension in Chinese-American relations, Russia shouldered the burden of open rivalry with the United States. In the context of China’s interests in the Middle East, Russia’s intervention made it possible for Beijing to place itself in the position of the only neutral actor in the Syrian conflict, as well as being a possible intermediary.

For Beijing, another motive to assess the Russian intervention positively has been the Chinese vision of the global fight against terrorism. China promoted the need for unity over this issue, by which it intended to legitimise the policy it pursued in Xinjiang.