Rebuffing ‘might is right’: China looking for to attain factors on the US’ expense, however might it backfire? | USAEMALL.com

WITH MAJOR POWER COMES MAJOR RESPONSIBILITY

In his Friday remarks, Wang, who’s the top diplomat by virtue of his concurrent position as head of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission of China’s Communist Party, had asserted that major powers should lead the charge in sustaining the international order.

“Major powers, in particular, should lead by example in upholding integrity and the rule of law, opposing double standards and selective application, and should never engage in bullying, market manipulation, or plunder.”

Analysts say Wang’s remarks were intended to portray China as a responsible major power, especially when juxtaposed against the expansionist and unilateral actions taken by the US under Trump. 

But while some nations, especially developing states, may be convinced to draw closer to Beijing, analysts say not all will be convinced.

“(While) easier for China to position itself in this light, whether countries actually buy this is another story completely,” noted NTU’s Hoo.

Beijing’s strategy could also backfire in the long run if it is perceived to not be practising what it preaches, observers point out.

It is “almost indisputable” that China is a major power today, and it has been treated as such by other countries, noted NTU’s Hoo. At the same time, he pointed out that the country has been selective in highlighting this point.

“Depending on (the) international forum, China sort of switches identity as and when it fits its purposes … on occasions in certain forums like the World Trade Organization, China has actually disclaimed itself from its major power status and tried to say it is a developing country.

“That’s the time where it’s also trying to build bonds and solidarity with the Global South,” said Hoo, referring to developing countries that are poorer, have higher levels of income inequality and suffer lower life expectancy.

Many of these countries are in the Southern Hemisphere, largely in Africa, Asia and Latin America.