By John Q. Hosedrinker 
In a speech to the U.N. General Assembly, Chinese Premier Li Qiang positioned China as a global leader, subtly criticizing the U.S.’s retreat from international cooperation. Li highlighted China’s commitment to global economic growth and addressing climate change, while also advocating for the United Nations. Experts believe this represents a shift in China’s foreign policy, aiming to reshape the world order to better align with its interests and values. Despite this, some analysts point out a disconnect between China’s rhetoric of multilateralism and its actions, particularly concerning its treatment of Hong Kong and its activities in the South China Sea.
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In UN speech, Beijing makes clear its intent to remold global norms, seizing on Trump’s retreat. It’s almost unavoidable at this point: the shifts in global power dynamics are becoming increasingly evident, and China is positioning itself to be a major player, perhaps even *the* major player, on the world stage. It’s hard to ignore the reality that the perceived decline in American leadership, a situation accelerated by actions like Trump’s retreat from international agreements and a general isolationist stance, has created a vacuum. And as we all know, nature (and international politics) abhors a vacuum. China, with its long-term strategic thinking and its relentless focus on economic growth and influence, is stepping in to fill that void.
China’s approach, as it seems from their statements, is not just about acquiring power; it’s about shaping the rules of the game. They’re not just content with economic dominance; they want to redefine the norms and values that govern global interactions. Think about it: what does a world order look like where China’s vision prevails? It likely prioritizes economic development, stability, and national sovereignty, possibly at the expense of some of the values the West has championed, like individual freedoms and democratic governance. Of course, they’re not angels. They’re primarily interested in what they can gain. Their Belt and Road Initiative, while offering infrastructure and economic opportunities, is ultimately extending their supply lines and influence.
The contrast is striking. While the US appears to be grappling with internal divisions and a perceived lack of trust from its allies, China presents itself as a resolute and pragmatic force. They’ve clearly learned from the history of empires. It’s a long game they’re playing, employing a mix of economic leverage, diplomatic maneuvering, and, yes, perhaps a bit of subtle manipulation. Western nations, by comparison, seem to be somewhat behind the curve in this game. The US’s recent actions have eroded trust, with many countries now looking to diversify their allegiances.
Of course, it’s not as if China’s internal governance is something to envy. They have their own problems with human rights, oppression, and lack of personal freedoms. Their model isn’t perfect, far from it. But, it’s their actions, more than their words, that are resonating on the international stage. They’re offering an alternative to the perceived instability and introspection of the previous leading power. They’re making it clear: we can do better.
The reality is that a lot of countries are looking to distance themselves strategically. The idea that China will simply waltz into the void left by the US isn’t a given. There’s always the risk of a power grab and social credit system, concentration camps and, frankly, the lack of freedoms they have. Many people, especially in the Western world, aren’t so easily swayed. But the fact remains: the US’s own shortcomings are making China’s rise easier.
It’s a complex situation, for sure. The US has, to put it mildly, lost a lot of influence, making it easier for China to step in. The US’s retreat has opened doors, and China is walking right through them. It is both a blessing and a curse to stand at the front. China will be reformed by it, in ways they have not anticipated and in ways they do not want. The US could focus on its internal problems and regain competitiveness rather than trying to forcibly maintain old norms. The best thing for the US to do is to avoid collapse.
And, the world is left with uncertainties. And America is not the only reason. The electoral system, lobbyism and the rest also contribute to the decline of the US. The rise of China is not just about China. The Middle East, Eastern Europe and South East Asia all are affected by the gap in the US. China is making it easier and perhaps the best thing to do is endure the US, until the next election cycle.