Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-01-18 07:37Core Viewpoint - The recent suspension of electricity exports from Russia to China has been interpreted by Western media as a sign of cooling relations between the two countries, but Russian President Putin's calm response suggests a deeper strategic consideration beyond mere trade disputes [3][5][15]. Group 1: Trade Dynamics - The suspension of electricity exports is a result of ongoing negotiations regarding pricing, with Russia's Inter RAO seeking a price increase of approximately 7% to balance operational costs [8][11]. - China has calculated that accepting the proposed price increase would negate the cost advantages of importing electricity from Russia, leading to a potential shift towards domestic power generation solutions [11]. - Electricity trade constitutes a minor portion of the over $200 billion annual trade volume between China and Russia, indicating that the overall energy cooperation is diversified and not solely reliant on electricity [13]. Group 2: Geopolitical Context - Putin's remarks during a meeting with new ambassadors from 30 countries highlighted a vision for a more equitable multipolar world order, suggesting that global dynamics are shifting beyond simple trade relationships [3][5]. - The focus of global power dynamics is transitioning from individual trade disputes to the broader contest for influence over the new international order, as evidenced by Canada's Prime Minister's visit to China to discuss cooperation [7]. - The Western media's portrayal of the electricity trade issue reflects a misunderstanding of the deeper strategic ties between China and Russia, as they continue to collaborate on various fronts despite minor trade disagreements [15][17]. Group 3: Economic Strategies - China is actively reducing its reliance on the US dollar by decreasing its holdings of US Treasury bonds and increasing its gold reserves, which supports the construction of a multipolar order [20]. - Russia is adapting to Western sanctions by deepening cooperation with emerging market countries and promoting the use of local currencies in trade, further diminishing dependence on Western markets [20]. - The strategic partnership between China and Russia remains robust, with ongoing collaboration in energy, military, and diplomatic areas, despite temporary disruptions in specific trade sectors [20].