Belarus is deepening its political and economic cooperation with China, marking a significant shift in its foreign relations. While maintaining strong ties with Russia, its traditional ally, Belarus is actively seeking to enhance its collaboration with Beijing.
Since 2013, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko have met 13 times, underscoring the growing importance of their bilateral relationship. This frequent high-level engagement reflects shared economic interests and a commitment to mutual development.
Bilateral trade between China and Belarus has seen substantial growth in recent years. In 2022, trade volume reached $5.08 billion, a 33 percent year-on-year increase. From January to August 2023, trade surged to $5.83 billion, with Belarusian exports to China soaring by 77 percent, according to Belarusian officials.
Economic cooperation was at the forefront of discussions during the recent summit between Xi and Lukashenko held in Beijing on December 4. This was their second meeting this year, highlighting the momentum in their relationship. In March, Xi described the China-Belarus friendship as ‘unbreakable’ and emphasized the need to ‘enhance political mutual trust’ and remain ‘good friends and partners.’
Belarus is a significant partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, serving as a strategic link between Asia and Europe. The nation is keen to find new markets for its export-oriented economy, and China’s vast market presents abundant opportunities. In November, over 70 Belarusian enterprises participated in the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, showcasing their commitment to expanding economic ties.
Following the summit, Lukashenko stated, ‘We decided a long time ago that we would cooperate and live in friendship with China. This friendship is more than 30 years old.’ He emphasized that Belarus has been and will remain a reliable partner for China.
While Russia remains Belarus’s major ally and the primary destination for its exports, the economic interests of China and Russia in Belarus appear to complement rather than compete with each other. This allows Belarus to continue strengthening ties with both Moscow and Beijing.
China has been actively investing in Belarusian infrastructure. As of October 2022, China financed at least 35 infrastructure projects in Belarus, including the significant China-Belarus Industrial Park ‘Great Stone,’ symbolizing the deepening economic partnership between the two countries.
The growing collaboration between Belarus and China illustrates the importance of personal relationships in diplomacy and the strategic benefits of diversified partnerships. As Belarus navigates its geopolitical landscape, its strengthened ties with China are poised to play a crucial role in its economic development.
Reference(s):
Xi-Lukashenko summit: Why good personal relations in diplomacy matter
cgtn.com
