China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, presented the country as a stabilizing force in a tumultuous global landscape shaped by the policies of the Trump administration. He cautioned that a return to a "law of the jungle" could occur if more nations prioritize their own interests, akin to the United States.
In the context of shifting global trade relations and the potential abandonment of alliances under the Trump administration, China aims to enhance its image both domestically and internationally while criticizing Western dominance. "We will provide certainty to this uncertain world," Mr. Wang stated during a press conference in Beijing on Friday.
However, Mr. Wang's characterization of China's role overlooked the tensions it has instigated. Chinese industrial policies have contributed to significant trade imbalances and the country’s military actions, including daily threats to Taiwan and live-fire naval exercises near Australia and Vietnam, have raised concerns.
On Friday, China directed blame at the United States for withdrawing from international agreements such as the World Health Organization and the Paris climate accord. The Trump administration's actions, including aggressive postures toward allies and controversial comments regarding Greenland, have further unsettled global relations.
"Great powers should shoulder their international obligations and fulfill their role as great powers," Mr. Wang remarked, emphasizing that they should not act solely for profit or engage in bullying tactics. He did not address China's own assertive actions, particularly in the South China Sea, where Chinese Coast Guard vessels have clashed with Philippine ships.
Mr. Wang's narrative, which portrays China as a target of American aggression, resonates with domestic audiences, as he linked the country's economic challenges to U.S. tariffs and technology restrictions. Despite these difficulties, he expressed confidence in China's economic recovery, referencing its resilience during the 2008 global financial crisis and promoting a vision of "high-quality development" driven by advanced technologies.
Nonetheless, China faces persistent economic challenges, including high youth unemployment, rising government debt, and a real estate crisis that has diminished consumer spending. The ongoing trade dispute with the United States poses additional risks, particularly as the Trump administration has imposed a 20 percent tariff on Chinese goods, framing it as a response to China's failure to address issues related to fentanyl and immigration.
Mr. Wang asserted that China would respond firmly to any further U.S. tariffs, stating, "If you choose to cooperate, you will achieve mutual benefit and win-win results; if you blindly exert pressure, China will definitely, resolutely counter." He urged the United States to seek internal solutions for its fentanyl crisis rather than placing blame on China.
Chinese officials have adopted increasingly assertive rhetoric regarding the trade conflict, with a foreign ministry spokesman declaring that China would "fight to the end" if the U.S. continued to escalate tensions. Despite this strong stance, China recognizes the importance of avoiding an uncontrolled trade war, advocating for discussions with the United States on equal terms.
Recently, China’s commerce minister reached out to U.S. officials to propose meetings aimed at resolving trade issues. Beijing remains cautious regarding the intentions of the Trump administration, awaiting clarity on whether the tariffs serve as a negotiation tactic leading to potential trade talks. Last month, President Trump suggested that a new trade agreement with China might be achievable, potentially revisiting a previously negotiated $200 billion trade deal.