Despite the increase in the level of knowledge intensity of the leading world powers, the expansion of the segment of «complex» services, innovative and high-tech products in their industry structure, the importance of hydrocarbons in the development of absolutely all national economies in the XXI century does not weaken. A fierce competition continues for control of the oil and gas markets, in which Russia, as a country whose economy depends on the volume and prices of exported energy resources, should rely on strengthening cooperation with China. This will allow it not only to maintain the return on its existing comparative advantages, but also to attract foreign capital for infrastructure development.