China appears to be maintaining a cautious stance as Russia and North Korea deepen their ties through a new defense pact, potentially altering the power dynamics among the three authoritarian states.
Experts suggest that China is concerned about the potential loss of influence over North Korea following the recent agreement between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin. This development raises fears of increased instability on the Korean Peninsula. However, China seems to be grappling with conflicting objectives: preserving peace in the Koreas while countering the influence of the U.S. and its allies globally.
China has refrained from commenting on the defense pact, emphasizing its commitment to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and the political resolution of the North-South divide. This silence has been interpreted as a sign of uncertainty within Chinese leadership regarding an appropriate response.
While some in Beijing may view the Russia-North Korea partnership as a means to challenge U.S. dominance in international affairs, there is also apprehension within China about losing influence over North Korea to Russia, dealing with a nuclear-armed neighbor, and avoiding the spillover of European conflicts into Asia.
Notably, China has not publicly expressed these concerns to avoid pushing North Korea further towards Russia. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson declined to comment on the agreement, stating that it is a matter between the two sovereign states.
The pact between Russia and North Korea has raised alarms in the U.S., with concerns about adherence to U.N. Security Council resolutions and support for Ukraine. China's potential worries include the sharing of advanced technology between Russia and North Korea, which could impact the latter's weapons program.
Amidst evolving political dynamics in East Asia, China's role as a leading power with influence over North Korea and Russia has drawn attention. While there are fears in the U.S. about China aligning with Russia, North Korea, and Iran to challenge the existing world order, Beijing has denied such intentions.
Experts suggest that China aims to maintain flexibility by avoiding a formal alliance with North Korea and Russia to prevent a new Cold War scenario. The recent developments between North Korea and Moscow may introduce uncertainties, but China's national interests have not been significantly compromised so far.
However, the strengthening ties between Putin and Kim could potentially diminish China's influence, making it the 'biggest loser' in this scenario. This could grant North Korea more autonomy to act without considering Beijing's interests, posing challenges for Chinese stability objectives.
