On May 27, section Global Governance hosted a lecture by Dr. Thomas Eder (Austrian Institute for International Affairs, OIIP) on China’s ambitions to reform global governance and its strategic partnership with Russia. The event was organized by Ksenia Radchenkova, who opened the discussion by underscoring the importance of Sino-Russian relations in the current international landscape.
Dr. Eder outlined how China seeks to expand its global influence through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and increased engagement in multilateral institutions, presenting itself as a proponent of a more inclusive international order. He also examined the role of Russia as a key strategic partner in China’s efforts to counterbalance the United States, particularly in the realms of energy, security, and diplomacy.
A central contribution to the event came from Dr. Walter Lee (Hong Kong Metropolitan University ), who served as discussant. He offered critical reflections on the opportunities and risks embedded in China–Russia cooperation, highlighting the economic, security, and reputational challenges China faces as it pursues great power status.
The lecture concluded with a discussion on how China’s partnership with Russia may both support and constrain its long-term global ambitions.