By John Q. Hosedrinker 
In response to U.S. tariffs, Canada is strengthening its trade ties with China by signing an agreement to liberalize trade. Chinese Vice Premier He emphasized the benefits of free trade, urging nations not to retreat from globalization, despite acknowledging its imperfections. He addressed concerns about China’s record trade surplus and emphasized China’s desire to become the world’s market while also encouraging foreign businesses to invest in China. Although China is aiming to boost domestic demand, household consumption remains low compared to the global average.
Read the original article here
China pitches itself as a reliable partner amid Trump threats, and it’s a stark contrast that’s getting noticed globally. It’s almost surreal how much the actions of certain factions within the US, particularly under the Trump administration, seem to be playing directly into China’s hands. It’s like a free advertisement for Beijing’s vision of global leadership.
The core of the problem is America’s perceived unreliability. The day-to-day shifts in policy, the antagonistic approach to allies, and the abandonment of international commitments – it all paints a picture of an unstable partner. Compared to this, China is presenting a consistent, long-term vision. They’re investing in infrastructure, offering aid, and building relationships based on mutual benefit. While the underlying motives might be self-serving, the outward appearance is one of stability and partnership, especially in contrast to the perceived chaos emanating from the US.
This isn’t to say China is perfect, far from it. It’s a country with its own serious issues, from human rights violations to aggressive stances on regional matters. However, in the context of a world grappling with uncertainty, the perception of consistency becomes incredibly valuable. Europe, for instance, faces a dilemma. The traditional alliance with the US, based on shared values and a rules-based order, is now being questioned. If the US is seen as abandoning those principles, what’s left? The logic, however unpleasant, can be hard to ignore.
The focus on the US’s unreliability also extends to trade. When your neighbor is unpredictable, and even threatens your sovereignty, the appeal of a consistent trading partner grows stronger. This is especially true for countries like Canada, which are looking for predictable partners. The irony is thick: China, with its own questionable practices, is perceived as a more reliable partner than the US. This is a monumental shift.
The consequences of this shift are far-reaching. The US has, in some ways, handed China opportunities on a silver platter. Abandoning international organizations, alienating allies, and embracing protectionism has created a vacuum. China is now positioned to fill that vacuum, setting the rules of the game and establishing its own influence.
It’s not just about economics, it’s also about values. China’s authoritarianism is at odds with Western democracies. However, in a world where the US is seen as potentially undermining the liberal order it once championed, the appeal of China, as a seemingly more stable alternative, can be alluring, even if it’s based on a flawed premise.
China’s approach isn’t always subtle. There’s an element of pragmatism, even ruthlessness, in their dealings. They understand the value of long-term investments, building relationships, and using economic leverage. This approach, while concerning in some ways, is perceived as more reliable than the short-sighted, erratic behavior of the US.
It’s important to remember that China’s reliability is a relative concept. They have their own agendas, and their actions are not always driven by altruism. However, in the face of the US’s perceived instability and unpredictability, China’s consistent pursuit of its goals makes it appear, at least in the short term, a more reliable partner. And this perceived shift in roles is precisely what makes the current international landscape so complex and uncertain. The situation is a dangerous game for the West, and, one might argue, a potentially lucrative play for Beijing.