Russia’s China Ties Spur Boom in Learning Mandarin

The news article highlights the growing popularity of learning Mandarin in Russia, which is seen as a reflection of the country's strengthening ties with China. According to the article, the demand for Mandarin language instruction has surged in Russia, including among members of President Vladimir Putin's family. This trend is viewed as a clear indication of Russia's shift away from its traditional Western alliances and towards a closer relationship with China. The article suggests that this linguistic shift is a tangible manifestation of Russia's strategic realignment, as the country seeks to bolster its economic and political cooperation with its eastern neighbor in the face of ongoing tensions with the West. The article underscores how the increased focus on learning Mandarin in Russia serves as a symbolic and practical representation of the country's evolving geopolitical priorities and its deepening engagement with China.