As the United States withdraws from international forums and treaties, China is poised to take on a more prominent role in global affairs. But can Beijing replace Washington as the world leader?
The Rise of China: Can it Replace the US as World Leader?
As the United States under Donald Trump continues to withdraw from international forums and treaties, China is increasingly taking on a more prominent role in global affairs. But can Beijing replace Washington as the world leader?
China's ascendency is a gradual process that began in the late 1970s with economic reforms initiated by Deng Xiaoping.
The country's GDP grew from $150 billion to over $14 trillion, making it the world's second-largest economy.
China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has expanded its global influence, investing in infrastructure projects across Asia, Europe, and Africa.
With a growing middle class and increasing technological advancements, China is poised to become a dominant player in global politics and trade.
China’s Growing Influence
With its growing economic power and increasing investments in various parts of the world, including Asia and Africa, China has become a major player in global politics. ‘Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has stated that his country sees Europe as a partner, not a rival, and is willing to play a ‘constructive role’ in the Ukraine-Russia peace talks.’
The US Withdrawal
Under Trump’s leadership, the United States has been withdrawing from international institutions, leaving a vacuum that China is eager to fill. ‘Graham Allison, professor of government at Harvard University and China expert, believes that if the US continues to leave trade agreements and international institutions, ‘China will be a champion.” Chinese President Xi Jinping has indeed noticed the opportunities arising from the US’s withdrawal and is seizing them.
Opportunities for China
China has been investing heavily in various regions, including Asia and Africa, which has increased its clout in these areas. It has also used its influence to mediate conflicts in places like Afghanistan and the Middle East. With the US playing a less prominent role on the global stage, China is well-positioned to take advantage of the opportunities arising from this shift.
China has been rapidly increasing its global influence through economic, military, and diplomatic means.
The country aims to become a dominant world power by 2049, marking the centenary of the Communist Party of China's founding.
Beijing is investing heavily in infrastructure projects worldwide, such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which spans over 70 countries.
China's military modernization has also accelerated, with a focus on developing advanced technologies like hypersonic missiles and stealth fighters.
Can Europe Trust China?
However, for Europe to trust China, it would be crucial that Xi Jinping’s government does not support any deal that goes against European interests. ‘Yao Yang, director of the China Center for Economic Research at Peking University, believes that ending Russia’s war in Ukraine is in China’s economic interest and that Beijing would want to push for peace in the region.’
China’s Ambitions
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has assured European leaders that his country can be trusted and that peace can be achieved in Ukraine if all stakeholders participate in negotiations. But what are China’s true ambitions? Does it want to replace the US as world leader, or is it simply seeking to fill the vacuum left by its withdrawal from international institutions?
As the global landscape continues to shift, one thing is clear: China is rising, and the world will be watching with interest to see how Beijing chooses to exercise its growing influence.
China's rise to global prominence began in the late 1970s, following economic reforms implemented by Deng Xiaoping.
The country's GDP grew exponentially, transforming it into the world's second-largest economy.
China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has further solidified its position as a major player in international trade and infrastructure development.
The country has also made significant advancements in technology, space exploration, and renewable energy.
According to the World Bank, China's GDP growth rate averaged 10% from 1980 to 2015, making it one of the fastest-growing economies in history.
