The China-Russia’s ‘Friendship Without Limits’ and the Implications for Europe’s Security

The panel was chaired by Ms. Viktorija STARYCH-SAMUOLIENÉ, Co-Founder and Director of Strategy, Council on Geostrategy, UK,  who was joined by The Rt Hon Sir Michael FALLON (key-note speaker), former Defence Secretary, UK, Mr. Andrei ILLARIONOV, former economic adviser to President Vladimir Putin (2000-2005), Russia, senior fellow at the Center for Security Policy in Washington DC, USA, Mr. Tomoyuki YOSHIDA, Chief Executive Director, The Japan Institute of International Affairs (JIIA), Japan – via VTC, Ambassador Doru COSTEA, member of the Scientific Council of the New Strategy Center, former ambassador of Romania to Beijing, Romania.

Amid crucial global dynamics, mainly as China’s violations of maritime laws in Southeast Asia highlight its imperialist ambitions, the United States remains committed to upholding international law and norms. To avoid past deterrence failures, the US is enhancing European defense systems, with countries like Romania playing a pivotal role in strengthening NATO’s defense in the Black Sea Region. Although the relationship between China and Russia has often been depicted as a strategic partnership characterized by mutual benefit and flexibility, there are significant limitations or constraints within this portrayal. While Russian President Vladimir Putin has made efforts to strengthen ties with China, especially in the face of perceived Western opposition, these endeavors are seen as primarily symbolic gestures rather than substantial cooperation or concrete outcomes. Consequently, policymakers must carefully account for these distinctions when formulating responses and policies. These dynamics carry substantial implications for EU security, emphasizing the necessity of strong defenses and appropriate approaches to mitigate potential threats.