During the Cold War era, the Communists were driven by the idea that imperialism and colonialism are the prime movers behind the changing world situation. When Kuwait became independent in 1961 and applied for membership to the United Nations, Russia – then known as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) - used its veto right, alleging that the emergence of the State of Kuwait was an imperial conspiracy! However two years later Kuwait did become a member.
The Sino-Russian position on the current crisis in Syria reflects the same kind of myopic attitude. Both China and Russia are worried that the Nato (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) will extend its hegemony over the Arab East. They fail to understand that such a situation already exists in accordance with the Istanbul Initiative of 2004. The US, British and French military bases in the Arabian Gulf confirm the close co-operation between the two sides.
The reasons for Russia’s adamant position are many. On the political front, Syria is the only Arab country with a Russian military base and an agreement to supply Russian arms to the value of $4tn. During the last year alone Damascus received Russian weapons worth $700mn. And there is a commitment for 36 Russian fighter planes at a cost of $550mn. In addition, Russia has invested $20mn on various projects in Syria, including a gas venture which is being managed by a Russian firm.
On the political front, the overwhelming reason for the Russian veto on the UN Security resolution is that it happened at a critical juncture for Vladimir Putin. He had to prove his hold on all that matters internally and externally in order to win the elections. Besides that the possibility of the Muslim Brotherhood coming to power if Bashar al-Assad’s regime falls is a nightmare for Russia.
The reasons for China’s veto are entirely different and far removed from the Arab world. China is irked by US intervention in the internal affairs of the countries in the China Sea area. The several agreements signed by America with those countries in addition to its military presence in Australia are disturbing developments for Beijing. Read More
