Chinese Investment May Venture Into Crimea

As Russia seeks Chinese investment in Crimea, it will try to make sure that such backing does not come at too high a price. Recently, Russian leaders and media reports claimed that China could invest more money in Crimea. Specifically, Chinese companies may help build a bridge across the Kerch Strait, creating a new link between Crimea and the Russian mainland. The Chinese may also help expand various Crimean ports, build solar power facilities, create special economic zones for manufacturing or even participate in other energy and transportation infrastructure projects.

Although nothing is confirmed, Russian President Vladimir Putin's trip to Beijing in late May will provide an opportunity for signing memoranda and launching negotiations over the financing and feasibility of various Crimean projects — even as China and Russia negotiate over much more consequential energy deals.