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Concept of Humanitarian Cooperation in Context of Belt and Road Initiative (2015–2025)

https://doi.org/10.24224/2227-1295-2026-15-4-506-522

Abstract

This article explores the conceptual frameworks underpinning international humanitarian cooperation, with a particular focus on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), launched by China in 2013. The initiative is examined as a comprehensive effort to establish extensive economic, cultural, and political linkages across the majority of Eurasian states. The authors trace the historical roots of the concept of humanitarian cooperation, demonstrating that contemporary Chinese policymakers have drawn significantly from China’s rich political, philosophical, and cultural heritage, notably the teachings of Confucius and Laozi. Furthermore, the study reveals that modern Chinese scholars interpret the principles of international humanitarian cooperation through the lens of traditional Chinese approaches to interstate relations. The authors argue that this interpretative framework constitutes a legitimate and foundational element of contemporary China’s foreign policy doctrine.

About the Authors

A. G. Nesterov
Ural Federal University named after the First President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin
Russian Federation

Alexander G. Nesterov – Doctor of History, Professor, Department of Foreign Regional Studies 

Yekaterinburg



Meng Ni
Ural Federal University named after the First President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin
Russian Federation

Ni Meng – post-graduate student,  Department of Regional Studies 

Yekaterinburg



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Review

For citations:


Nesterov A.G., Ni M. Concept of Humanitarian Cooperation in Context of Belt and Road Initiative (2015–2025). Nauchnyi dialog. 2026;15(4):506-522. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.24224/2227-1295-2026-15-4-506-522

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ISSN 2225-756X (Print)
ISSN 2227-1295 (Online)