It is the alternative payments clearing system, out of the direct control and influence of the US Treasury's economic warfare unit, that is one major benefit. And now trade between Mid East oil suppliers and China, amongst others, doesn't have to be denominated in $US, nor does all trade between participating nations. This has been the case for the BRICS for a while, though, until recently, it was based on bi-lateral agreements.  They now have a choice of payment clearing systems. It is also a possibility for Iran, if they can get beyond 'Athiest Communists'. Washington, London and Frankfort can just go suck rocks. Sanctions are just driving this process ever more rapidly. While Obama talks about a 'pivot to Asia', Russia is doing it. And that is where a large part of the development opportunities in Eurasia for the 21st century lie.

"It is not necessary to have hope in order to persevere."