The 1881–1905 period in the history of Sino-Russian relations

Abstract

Although the history of diplomatic relations between Russian and Qing Empires in late 19th — early 20th centuries was studied quite well, there is still a huge interest for this period in the history of Sino-Russian relations among Russian and Chinese researchers. After The Treaty of Saint Petersburg (1881) was signed the border between two Empires was finally set. Sino-Russian relations of this period are characterized by mutual Russia’s and China’s strategic and geopolitical interests. Also this period saw a very active cultural interaction between the people of two Empires. At the same time, the policy of both states towards each other during this period can be described as changeable and full of contradictions. In 1905, as a consequence of Russo-Japanese war, most of the positive achievements of Russian and Chinese diplomats of mid. 1890s were invalidated by the “Treaty of Portsmouth”.

Keywords:

Russia and China, history of international relations, late 19th — early 20th centuries, interaction, advantages and disadvantages