Xi Jinping Slams US, Asserts China’s Global Leadership
In a bold move on Monday, Chinese leader Xi Jinping took a veiled shot at the United States, condemning “bullying practices” and positioning his country as a new leader in world governance. This comes at a time when President Donald Trump’s America First foreign policy is causing upheaval on a global scale.
Addressing more than 20 world leaders gathered at a summit in Tianjin, Xi emphasized that “the house rules of a few countries should not be imposed on others.” The event, organized to showcase China’s global leadership and its close partnership with Russia, highlights the two nations’ efforts to shift the balance of power away from the US and its allies.
The summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), backed by Beijing and Moscow, drew political heavyweights including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
During the summit, Xi pledged significant financial support to SCO member states, signaling China’s commitment to strengthening economic ties within the organization. He also introduced a new Global Governance Initiative, underscoring his vision for a reshaped international order that promotes justice and equity.
Xi’s rhetoric challenges the existing US-led world order, rejecting alliances like NATO and questioning universal human rights principles. As Trump’s policies stir unease among nations, China sees an opportunity to promote its alternative vision for global governance.
Putin, echoing Xi’s sentiments, positioned the SCO as a platform for a new security system in Eurasia, countering Western-led alliances. The close ties between China and Russia, as well as the personal bond between Xi and Putin, were on display at the summit, showcasing their united front against Western pressure.
The leaders’ discussions at the SCO summit also addressed the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, with Putin defending Russia’s actions and highlighting China and India’s efforts to facilitate peace talks. The gathering served as a platform for Putin to demonstrate Russia’s resilience and strategic alignment with China.
As China emerges as a key supporter of Russia amid international sanctions, the partnership between Beijing and Moscow faces scrutiny from the US. Despite Trump’s threats of tariffs, China continues its trade ties with Russia, impacting diplomatic relations with India.
Modi’s presence at the summit signaled India’s evolving relationship with both China and Russia, as the three leaders engaged in discussions on regional conflicts and economic cooperation. The SCO meeting, along with a forthcoming military parade in Beijing, symbolizes Xi’s diplomatic initiatives on the global stage.
With a diverse group of leaders in attendance, the SCO summit underscores China’s growing influence in shaping international relations and challenging the existing world order. As Xi asserts China’s leadership role, the event serves as a pivotal moment in defining the future of global governance. – CNN