Balancing Powers: Russia's Strategic Dance between India and China

Dr Dmitry Trenin, the newly appointed president of the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), has highlighted the critical need for maintaining a balance between Russia's strategic partners, India and China. In his first interview as president, Trenin stressed the importance of these relationships against a backdrop of global unrest.

Trenin underscored China's strategic significance, advocating for systematic attention to bilateral relations, while also acknowledging India's positive yet evolving partnership with Russia. He positioned RIAC as a pivotal institution at a time he described as 'turbulent and dramatic,' with ambitions to revitalize and steer the council through contemporary challenges.

Reflecting on the state of the world, Trenin compared the current geopolitical climate to a 'new world war,' distinct from past global conflicts. His vision for RIAC includes enhancing its influence and response to global shifts, reinforcing Russia's autonomy amid international pressures.