Before participating in the third "Belt and Road" summit forum, Putin of Russia specially arranged a meeting with Mongolia's Khurilsukh. The purpose of the meeting was not only to strengthen the friendly relations between the two countries, but also to clear the way for energy cooperation between Russia and China.
During the meeting, Putin made two demands on Mongolia. First, it is necessary to ensure the smooth progress of the "Power of Siberia-2" gas pipeline project, which is a major cooperation project between Russia and China, and is also an important measure for Russia to "look east". Second, it is necessary to attach importance to the cooperation between the two countries, and this year's two countries have seen a sharp decline, which is in stark contrast to last year's growth, and needs to be solved in a timely manner.
Putin's two demands are actually a hint that Mongolia should not forget Russia, an old friend, and not favor the United States in foreign cooperation. Because recently, Mongolia has had frequent exchanges with the United States, not only signing large orders in the fields of rare earths and aviation, but also strengthening cooperation in education and military affairs, and even making English the first foreign language in secondary education instead of Russian. These moves are undoubtedly a demonstration to Russia, showing that Mongolia is no longer under Russian influence, but wants to develop a diplomatic strategy of a "third neighbor".
And the reason why the United States is so attentive to Mongolia is also for a purpose. The United States wants to take advantage of Mongolia's geographical location to break into the gap between China and Russia and weaken the strategic cooperation between China and Russia, while also wanting to use Mongolia's rare earth resources to reduce its dependence on China. These moves by the United States have not only harmed Russia's interests, but also threatened China's security.
Therefore, before talking to China, Putin first met with Mongolia**, which is to give Mongolia a warning and let Mongolia understand that Russia is its most important neighbor, and not to easily betray Russia and not to offend Russia for the sake of temporary interests. At the same time, Putin also wants to let Mongolia know that Russia's cooperation with China is unstoppable, and Mongolia, as a transit country, should actively cooperate instead of sabotage, otherwise it will be countered by China and Russia.
Putin's meeting also shows the importance he attaches to Sino-Russian energy cooperation. He brought with him the heads of Russian gas and oil giants ready to enter into in-depth negotiations with China on the Power of Siberia-2 project. The project, which will begin construction in 2024, is a milestone in Sino-Russian energy cooperation and an important means for Russia to respond to Western sanctions. Putin hopes to eliminate the potential variable of Mongolia before reaching an agreement with China, so as to escort Sino-Russian energy cooperation.
This also shows that Russia's trust and friendship with China are firm, and they will not be shaken by the interference of Mongolia or the United States. As for us, we must also seize this opportunity to strengthen energy cooperation with Russia, and at the same time exert appropriate pressure on Mongolia to make Mongolia understand that Sino-Russian cooperation is unquestionable, and if Mongolia wants to benefit from it, it must abide by the rules of China and Russia, and cannot use this route, which is called the "life pipeline", as its own bargaining chip.