Despite the public image of cordiality presented by China and Russia, some observers suggest the friendship is on fragile foundations. Xi Jinping is visiting Moscow this week in a show of solidarity with Vladimir Putin. However, a background dispute over territory in east Siberia could dangerously undo the comprehensive strategic partnership.
On 14 February, the Chinese Ministry of Natural Resources (CMNR) issued a decree on the use of names on international maps. Some cities in Russia, the decree rules, must now carry Chinese names, replacing their Russian ones.