The potential for humanitarian cooperation between Russia and China with the DPRK in the context of the problem of ensuring regional stability in Northeast Asia

Interrelations between states in various spheres contribute to their rapprochement and deepening mutual understanding. The humanitarian sphere makes a significant contribution to the formation of friendly relations and has the potential to reduce regional tensions. The classical theory of interdependence by Thibaut and Kelley, describes models of interaction which exist within interdependent relationships. Contemporary relations in Northeast Asia require an adaptation of the theory, though due to the tense situation in the region caused by the possession of nuclear weapons by the DPRK and by the low level of interconnectedness of the states in the region and a deficit in mutual trust. This study is conducted in the spirit of qualitative analysis. Through an in-depth description of official documents and recent historical events, complemented by a comparative analysis of bilateral relations, this paper substantiates how the non-political functions of the humanitarian sphere are transformed into geopolitical dividends in the security sphere. This study substantiates the importance and primacy of humanitarian ties for building not only political ties but also a security system in international relations, applying interdependence theory to the DPRK's contemporary relations with Russia and China in the sphere of humanitarian cooperation. The study demonstrates that Russia and China's approaches to bilateral humanitarian cooperation with the DPRK are characterized by both differences and complementarities in content and focus, which, in turn, contributes to the further formation of interstate interdependence at the level of regional governance in Northeast Asia within the framework of reflexive control. The authors conclude that relations between Russia and the DPRK, and between China and the DPRK, are built on the principles of equality, mutual respect, and common national interests, which helps prevent the escalation of tensions in Northeast Asia and reduce the risks of conflict.