Treaty of Livadia

On February 24, 1881, the Treaty of Livadia was signed between the Qing dynasty of China and the Russian Empire. This treaty sought to address the territorial disputes arising from Russia’s occupation of the Ili River Valley, a strategically important region in present-day Xinjiang, China.

Background

The Ili River Valley had been a point of contention between the two empires following the Russian occupation in 1871. This occupation occurred during the Dungan Revolt (1862–77), an internal conflict that weakened Qing control over its northwestern territories. Taking advantage of the situation, Russia moved forces into Ili to protect its interests and citizens in the region, although ostensibly to restore order amidst the chaos.

Terms of the Treaty

The Treaty of Livadia outlined several key terms aimed at resolving the disputes over the Ili Valley:

1. Territory Retrocession: Russia agreed to return most of the Ili Valley to China, recognizing Qing sovereignty over the region.
2. Territorial Concessions: Despite the retrocession, a portion of the territory was to remain under Russian control.
3. Economic and Diplomatic Provisions: The treaty included stipulations for trade and diplomatic relations, favoring Russian interests in certain respects.

Negotiation and Ratification

Negotiated by Chong Hou, a Chinese diplomat, the treaty was seen as unfavorable to China. It failed to address the broader aspirations and territorial integrity sought by the Qing administration. Consequently, upon his return, Chong faced severe criticism and was sentenced to death, though his sentence was later commuted.

Supersession by the Treaty of St. Petersburg

Due to the perceived inequalities and public outcry in China, the Treaty of Livadia was never fully implemented. In 1881, following further negotiations, the Treaty of St. Petersburg was signed on February 12 (February 24, New Style calendar). This new agreement corrected the perceived imbalances:

• Full Restitution: It restored the entire Ili Valley to Chinese control.
• Clearer Boundaries: It established more favorable border demarcations for China.
• Balanced Trade Agreements: It revised the economic terms, aiming at a more equitable arrangement for both parties.

Historical Significance

The resolution of the Ili crisis marked an important moment in Sino-Russian relations. The eventual arrangement through the Treaty of St. Petersburg eased tensions and restored diplomatic balance between the empires. It highlighted the complexities of 19th-century imperialist dynamics and the importance of negotiated settlements in international conflicts.