As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, it can veto threatening resolutions, as it did a year ago (just three days before it secured exploration rights to three more offshore blocks near Ramree).

ECONOMIST: China and Myanmar

As a significant participant in the international community with a veto in the Security Council of the United Nations, it can provide limited political protection to embattled regimes.

ECONOMIST: What China wants and can offer for its money

Russia is one of many countries that call Kosovo's declaration of independence illegal, and will use its veto in the Security Council to prevent it from joining the United Nations.

ECONOMIST: The Balkans