Asian Identity: A Complex Landscape
A Matter of Definition
The classification of who is considered "Asian" has been a topic of ongoing debate across the globe, including Europe, Asia, and the United States. Traditional definitions have placed Russia as having the largest Asian population with an estimated 95 million people. However, these definitions are constantly evolving and vary depending on the context and perspective.
Russia's Asian Connection
Despite its geographic proximity to Europe, Russia has a significant Asian population, particularly in its eastern regions. The term "Éluósīzú" or Russian Chinese refers to one of the 56 ethnic groups recognized in Russia. These individuals are descendants of Russian and Chinese ancestors and have a unique cultural heritage that blends elements from both backgrounds.
Expanding Ties between China and Russia
Over the past decade, China and Russia have strengthened their trade and defense ties. While they are not formal allies, their cooperation has raised concerns among Western powers. Some experts believe that Russia's war in Ukraine could further deepen the relationship between these two countries.
A Diplomatic History
China and Russia established diplomatic relations in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union. American scholar Joseph Nye has described this relationship as a "complex combination of cooperation and competition."
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