China’s rise as the world’s largest economy has been accompanied by a shift in its approach to international relations, presenting its own ideology as an alternative to the Western model. Central to this shift is the concept of a “Community with a Shared Destiny for Humanity,” outlined by President Xi Jinping in 2013.
This concept emphasizes China’s philosophical understanding of its role in global affairs and promotes peaceful and stable relations among countries, despite differences in views and internal systems.
The Chinese view differs from the Western ideology in several key aspects. While the West has historically promoted a vision of a single liberal democratic center, centered around North America and Western Europe, China advocates for a more diverse and inclusive approach to international relations.
Chinese and Russian President (Credits: CNA.org)
The West’s approach has been characterized by efforts to expand the zone of liberal democracies, often leading to tensions and conflicts with countries that have different views and systems.
China’s approach, on the other hand, recognizes the uniqueness of each country’s experience and civilizational path. It emphasizes equality, non-interference, respect, and mutual interests in building a new world order. This approach contrasts with the Western view, which seeks to promote its own values and principles as a universal standard.
The Chinese perspective is deeply rooted in Eastern philosophy, which places less emphasis on competition and primacy and more on harmony and mutual understanding.
This worldview, reflected in Confucianism and other Eastern philosophies, underpins China’s foreign policy strategy, which aims to promote peace and stability through dialogue and cooperation.
In recent years, China has become increasingly influential on the world stage, challenging the Western-dominated international order. Its Belt and Road Initiative, launched in 2013, is a key example of its efforts to promote connectivity and cooperation among countries.
This initiative, which focuses on infrastructure development and economic cooperation, has the potential to reshape global trade and investment patterns.
For Russia, China’s rise presents both challenges and opportunities. While Russia recognizes the importance of China as a trading partner and supporter of its integration projects, such as the Greater Eurasian Partnership, it also seeks to maintain its own strategic autonomy and unique identity.
Russia’s approach to international relations, like China’s, emphasizes sovereignty, mutual respect, and non-interference in internal affairs. In conclusion, China’s evolving approach to international relations represents a significant departure from the Western model.
Its emphasis on harmony, mutual understanding, and respect for diversity offers a new perspective on global governance. As China continues to rise as a global power, its influence on the international order is likely to grow, shaping the future of international relations in profound ways.
