Core Viewpoint - The importance of studying the Soviet Union and Russia for China is emphasized, highlighting the need for more academic research in this area despite the current positive state of Sino-Russian relations [2][10][14]. Group 1: Academic Research on the Soviet Union - There is a noticeable lack of research output on Russia in China, despite the overall growth in international studies [2][10]. - The "Soviet, Soviet" series has published three works that reflect different aspects of the Soviet Union, providing valuable samples for research [2][4]. - The series includes titles that explore topics such as foreign guest shops, the Volga River hydropower stations, and the underlying factors of Soviet growth rates [4][14]. Group 2: Personal Experience and Observations - The speaker has extensive experience in Soviet and Russian studies, having worked in this field for nearly four decades [5][6]. - Observations from the late 1980s reveal a stark contrast between the abundance of goods in post-Soviet Russia and the shortages experienced during the Soviet era [9][10]. - The speaker recounts experiences of visiting the Soviet Union, noting the long queues for basic goods, which reflects the economic conditions of the time [8][9]. Group 3: Historical Context and Lessons - The disintegration of the Soviet Union has led to various interpretations of its history, particularly among Eastern European countries that were once part of the Soviet sphere [10][12]. - The speaker argues that understanding the lessons from the Soviet Union is crucial for China's development, suggesting that these lessons can aid in building socialism with Chinese characteristics [15][16]. - The historical narrative surrounding the Soviet Union continues to evolve, with differing perspectives emerging in Russia and the West [10][12].