The Treaty of Nebuchu was the first border treaty signed between the Qing Dynasty and Tsarist Russia in 1689, and the first international agreement between China and a European country. This historically important document was officially signed by representatives of both sides in Nebuchu (present-day Nerchensk, Russia). The treaty clearly defined the eastern section of the border between China and Russia, including the Gelbiqi River, the Ergun River and the Trans-Khingan Mountains. At the same time, it also mentioned the Rördi region as an area to be discussed. Even centuries after the treaty was signed, this clause still raises concerns and debates about whether it is possible for those areas to be discussed to be returned to China in the future.
To explore this question, we need to recall the historical background of the Treaty of Nebuchu. After the Qing Dynasty unified the country, it faced the threat of various separatist forces, especially Tsarist Russia from the northeast. Tsarist Russia began to expand at the end of the 16th century, and its aggression evolved into a direct conflict between the Chinese and Russian governments in the mid-17th century. In this tense situation, the Kangxi Emperor decisively negotiated with Russia through diplomatic means, and finally reached the Treaty of Nebuchu. The signing of the treaty was beneficial to both sides, clarified the borders, deterred further Russian aggression, and promoted exchanges and cooperation between China and Russia. However, the question of the ownership of the Udi region remains unresolved, laying the groundwork for future disputes. So, is it possible for today's Udi region to return to China's territory?
The Treaty of Nebuchu was signed against the backdrop of a complex relationship between the Qing Dynasty and Tsarist Russia in the 17th century. At that time, the Qing Dynasty had just established national power and faced various internal and external threats, especially the invasion of Tsarist Russia from the northeast. Tsarist Russia gradually expanded from the end of the 16th century into Siberia and the Far East, eventually coming into direct conflict with the Qing dynasty in the mid-17th century. In this situation, the Kangxi Emperor chose to resolve the conflict through diplomatic negotiations and reached the Treaty of Nebuchu with Russia.
This treaty is beneficial to both parties. The treaty defined the eastern boundaries, namely the Gelbiqi River, the Ergun River, and the Trans-Khingan Mountains, and successfully contained further Russian expansion. The treaty also provided for the transit and trade of passport-holders of both sides, which greatly facilitated economic and cultural exchanges between the two countries. The Udi region was listed as a pending area, and while the question of its ownership was not immediately resolved, it left room for future peace negotiations.
Faced with this historical question, we have to ask: Is it possible for the Wudi River region to return to China in the future? This is not just a matter of historical legacy, but also involves the complexities of modern international relations and geopolitics. What does the future hold for the Udi region, and can we achieve its return through peaceful means?
Although there is a lot of historical and cultural evidence to support the idea that the Udi region may return to China, the reality is mixed. China has always stressed the importance of territorial integrity and national sovereignty, and brooks no interference or infringement by any external forces. In dealing with territorial issues with neighboring countries, China has always advocated settling disputes through peaceful dialogue and consultation, and this pragmatic attitude has won the recognition of the international community. However, the complexities of international relations and geopolitics cannot be ignored. The development of globalization and multipolarization has made countries more closely linked and their interests more intertwined.
Achieving the return of the Odi region will require enormous efforts and costs, not only from the domestic front, but also with the understanding and cooperation of the international community. The Chinese Government has always actively advocated and safeguarded its territorial sovereignty, settled disputes through dialogue and consultation, and worked hard to maintain regional peace and stability. This kind of open and pragmatic attitude embodies the responsibilities and responsibilities of major countries.
In addition, recalling the spirit of the Treaty of Nebuchu, respecting history and facts, and settling disputes through peaceful negotiations remain of great relevance. Drawing on these experiences, we can be more flexible and creative in dealing with similar territorial issues.
In the future, we need to continue to adhere to our principled position, and at the same time flexibly respond to the changing international situation, explore new models and mechanisms for international cooperation, and promote the maximization of national interests and regional peace and stability. So, in this context, is it really possible for the Wudi region to return to China in the future?