Under the leadership of Xi Jinping, China's international presence has undergone a significant transformation. This evolution not only marks a change within China but has ripple effects across global politics and economics. From bilateral partnerships to multilateral gatherings like APEC, Xi has employed various strategies to position China as a central player on the world stage.
This past September, President Xi met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame during the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). Their discussions led to the elevation of China-Rwanda relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Xi underscored the shared belief between the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) about advancing governance for the people. Both nations, as Xi noted, have achieved notable successes through this governance model, earning them the trust of their citizens.
Rwanda's commitment to multilateralism and respect for sovereignty mirrored China's ambitions. Kagame expressed gratitude for Xi's leadership role on the African continent, which he believes fosters solidarity among African nations and fortifies Africa-China relations. The summit concluded with the two sides issuing multiple cooperation agreements across various sectors, reflecting their dedication to deepening ties.
Meanwhile, as Xi prepares to attend the upcoming APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, scheduled to take place in Lima, Peru, the tone of his engagements is noteworthy. APEC forums serve as fertile ground for discussing economic cooperation and cultural exchange. Xi, noted for his eloquence, has often highlighted metaphors relevant to cooperation, such as equipping the “sweet potato” analogy to describe interdependence within the Asia-Pacific region.
“No matter what level of development it may reach, China, with its roots in the Asia-Pacific, will always contribute to the region's development and prosperity,” he asserted during previous meetings, alluding to China's deep connections with APEC member economies. This analogy emphasizes the idea of cooperation and mutual growth among the countries, which is central to Xi's diplomatic approach.
With China counting its trade with APEC countries surpassing 21 trillion yuan (around $2.92 trillion), it clearly signals China's desire to forge economic partnerships beyond its borders. China's overall tariffs have been lowered to promote free trade, reflecting Xi’s intention to solidify China's economic relevance and collaborative spirit.
Yet, all eyes are on Xi as he navigates the complicated waters of U.S.-China relations, especially with the anticipated return of former President Donald Trump. President Biden's upcoming talks with Xi at APEC will certainly involve discussions about the impacts of Trump’s policies should he reclaim the presidency. Trump's threatening tariffs on Chinese exports and hard-line stance during his previous term created significant tension between the two nations.
Jake Sullivan, the White House National Security Adviser, acknowledged the importance of maintaining stability during this period. Transitions, he remarked, often present “opportunities” for adversaries, alluding to the importance of clarity and predictability among international actors.
Conversely, Xi stands at the helm of increased assertiveness as well as ideological commitment toward Marxism. Kevin Rudd's book, "On Xi Jinping", analyzes this ‘Marxist Nationalism’ approach, illustrating Xi’s ideological pivot compared to his predecessors. According to Rudd, Xi has determined to restore the CCP's stature by reinforcing its ideological leanings and controlling the narratives about China's global engagements.
Rudd notes, “Xi has embarked on an integrated ideological campaign of ‘Marxist Nationalism,’ which integrates Leninist principles and nationalistic elements.” This fundamental shift from the pragmatism espoused by leaders like Deng Xiaoping is seen as Xi’s way of pushing back against perceived Western hegemony and charting his vision for China on the global stage.
Under Xi, expectations are for China to assume more rigorous stances on issues like technology and human rights, which will keep relations with the U.S. strained. The complexity of such international diplomacy demands strategic messaging during high-profile meetings such as APEC, where Xi’s rhetoric around mutual respect will likely be juxtaposed against the backdrop of rising tensions with the West.
Xi's approach reflects his belief as cultivated by years of leadership experience. His assertion, "China cannot develop in isolation from the Asia-Pacific, nor can the Asia-Pacific prosper without China," echoes his commitment to China’s place as an economic and geopolitical leader. While nurturing ties with countries like Rwanda and engaging with established frameworks like APEC indicate China’s push for stronger influence, they are equally challenges to the status quo.
With Xi’s ideological firmness paired with pragmatic speeches directed at fostering collaboration, his policies forecast potentially volatile interactions with the incoming U.S. administration. The coming months are set to be pivotal not only for China but also for the broader international community as it grapples with the outcomes of Xi’s policies and the shifting tides of global economics and power.
