As China continues to establish itself as a major player in the international arena, there are growing concerns about the country’s intentions. Many are apprehensive about China’s rise to power and question whether it will follow in the footsteps of other great powers and become a colonizer. However, I believe that the contributions and the choices of China as a constructive member of the international community make it clear that it will not become a colonizer. Instead, China will continue to make positive contributions to the global community and foster a more collaborative and harmonious world.
First, China brings a lot of bread and butter to the table by facilitating trade and developing maximum foreign relations. China’s approach to International Relations is one that emphasizes trade and mutual benefit. Historically, China has been a trading nation, and this tradition has continued into the present day. The massive economic project, Belt and Road initiative, initiated by China has planted the seed of a multipolar world and is a prime example of its commitment to trade and economic cooperation. The BRI has already built several partnerships and promoted trade and liberalization with 140 members by now. China’s membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO) further underscores its commitment to free trade and its advocacy for reforms to make the organization more representative of the interests of developing countries.
One important aspect of China’s approach to international relations is its adherence to the obligations of international law. China’s efforts in this regard have brought positive development to the global community. One of the approaches that I appreciate about China is Collaboration to achieve a diplomatic and peaceful end to any crisis. China released the Global Security Initiative (GSI) framework for the political settlement of Ukraine. Also, China’s president paid a state visit to Russia in this regard to bring significant clarification to the Russia-Ukraine crisis and then promote peace between the countries through dialogue. Wang Yi, the foreign minister of China, also reiterated the purpose of the visit as “it was an important visit between the two big neighbours, and was a trip not only of cooperation but also one of peace.”
As the peaceful settlement of Ukraine is the aspiration of many, China urged European countries to come along and play a constructive role in this regard. China’s president, Xi Jinping, said in a meeting, “the strategic consensus between Europe and China would not only aid in the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis but also in the resolution of many other long-standing international issues.” It means China believes that working together with Europe is the key to overcoming any international crisis. This indicates that international collaboration and cooperation are important to China more than anything.
As a permanent member of the United Nations (UN), China is committed to advancing human rights and cooperation in international affairs. It believes that the UN is a platform for constructive dialogue and cooperation, rather than a battleground for political manipulation and bloc confrontation. China also stands against those who ineffectively implement international obligations, as evidenced by its stance on the trilateral Nuclear Submarine Cooperation (AUKUS) pact. Since the risk of nuclear proliferation persists, China urged all member states of the Non-proliferation treaty to actively promote the intergovernmental process and find a solution to safeguard issues related to nuclear submarine cooperation, so that international peace and security can be maintained.
China’s approach to modernization also offers a valuable contribution to the world. The recent online summit hosted by China themed “Path towards Modernization: The Responsibility of Political Parties” offered an alternative path for humanity to follow and a guided framework to bring harmony to cultural-ethical relations between people. The Chinese people and their Communist Party (CPC) are providing the world with valuable Chinese perspectives, input, and strength to help address global issues.
China’s choices to promote global governance, enhance connectivity and modernize states reveal its clear refusal to adopt a colonialist approach. Rather, I see China’s efforts as evidence of its dedication to a more collaborative and harmonious world. Hopefully, China will persist in its efforts to promote constructive transformation worldwide inspired by a shared future.