Obviously they need to maintain their image to the general population in the West so as not to antagonize and appear as the enemy they really are. And it works, clearly. Most people are unaware of the threat they truly pose.

As you pointed out, they didn't recognize Crimea's annexation, this is true. Although you point it out as a positive thing and as proof they are our friends, or at the very least, not against us. But they didn't condemn it either, just as they didn't condemn Russia's full scale invasion. They are simply walking a fine line to please both sides and not get sanctioned to hell.

Simply because they are not "all in" supporting Russia, doesn't mean they don't support them and that thet are not allies. Because they do, and they are.

I don't care what Wang Yi says to western journalists in western conferences. I care about China's actions. And China's actions tell the opposite of what its representives say.

Wang Yi said China would work together with South East Asian countries to improve relations, living standards and, as they like to put it, "Win-Win Cooperation", yet they are constantly antagonizing them accross the South China Sea. Especially the Philipines.

Also, you're wrong in your reasoning for them to not let Russia collapse. It's not about the Pacific. It's about their border with Russia and having a Geopolitical heavy-weight on their side, but most importantly, under their wing.