As China has recently increased its global influence, it has begun to build more constructive relationships with the world. However, China’s continued involvement alongside Moscow in the Russia-Ukraine war has led to criticism from the West. Therefore, China has been careful to be balanced and prudent while building positive relations with all actors.
With this in mind, Ankara Center for Crisis and Political Studies (ANKASAM) presents the views of Dr. Mohamad Zreik of Central China Normal University to assess China’s global equilibrium policy and its impact on world politics.
1. Can you tell us about the resumption of dialog and rapprochement efforts between Australia and China?
Relations between China and Australia have gone through a series of difficulties in recent years, with tensions between the two countries regularly making headlines. However, the recent resumption of high-level talks in Beijing is a positive sign that the two countries are interested in improving their relationship. I believe that the focus on trade liberalization and the rejection of a bloc confrontation is consistent with Beijing’s overall approach to foreign policy. China has always presented itself as a proponent of globalization and considers trade an important tool of foreign policy.
China’s decision to lift tariffs on Australian barley is seen as an attempt to improve strained relations and create favorable conditions for future negotiations. Chinese President Xi Jinping’s invitation to Australian Prime Minister Antony Albanese shows how much Beijing cares about restoring relations with Canberra. Such an invitation shows how serious China is about restoring relations on the world stage.
Recently, the leaders of Australia and China met on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, proving once again the small but positive steps both countries have taken to restore trust. In my opinion, the high-level bilateral talks show that China is willing to talk with its neighbors and resolve their differences. It is clear that Beijing is consciously focusing its relations with Australia on mutual respect and cooperation. The key to a more peaceful future between China and Australia may lie in mutual recognition of the importance of regional stability in the Asia-Pacific and the shared pursuit of economic growth.
2. How do you think China’s economic growth and opening-up policies contribute to the global economy?
China’s incredible economic growth and openness over the years has been a driving force for international trade and prosperity. Looking at China’s history, I can see that its rise from an isolated agrarian civilization to an international economic power has had an impact on countries around the world. The growth of trade is one of the main channels through which this influence has occurred. When China began to allow more foreign trade, it was not just a matter of buying and selling goods.
As China’s middle class expands and spends more, companies from around the world are benefiting from new market opportunities. China’s opening has integrated the country into the fabric of the global supply chain beyond trade. Global companies are increasingly investing in China’s development because of this integration, and not just because of China’s low-cost manufacturing. In addition, the cash flows generated by China’s development have benefited many countries. Chinese finance has filled financing gaps in everything from investments in African infrastructure to stakes in Silicon Valley computer companies. This has enabled expansion and development in a wide range of sectors.
However, let’s not ignore the intellectual and cultural enrichment that has resulted. The freer flow of ideas coincided with China’s opening up to the outside world. China and the rest of the world have benefited greatly from the interaction of their students, professionals, and visitors. I think China’s economic development and opening-up policies mean much more than statistics and trade surpluses. They have changed the structure of the international economy and made the world more interdependent and interconnected. The world’s problems are universal, but so are the possible solutions.
3-How do you assess China’s efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict?
China’s recent mediation efforts in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, particularly the 12-point proposal, are evidence of Beijing’s diplomatic skill and desire to establish itself as a leading player on the international stage. In this case, however, by emphasizing its policy of non-interference, China seeks to actively promote peace talks by demonstrating its ability to change and respond to changing international circumstances.
The 12-point plan serves to facilitate the talks and possibly lay the groundwork for future talks. This can be interpreted as an expression of China’s all-encompassing diplomatic style, where broad, all-encompassing ideas are used as a springboard for further discussions and negotiations. By avoiding direct accusations and not targeting individual countries, China likely aims to create a more conducive environment for diplomacy, thereby reducing potential communication obstacles.
China’s rejection of unilateral measures that could destabilize international relations provides the context for Xi’s criticism of Western sanctions against Russia. What might be interpreted by some in the West as partisanship is seen by the Chinese as a call for multilateralism and a common approach to problem solving. Some say China’s position is inconsistent, especially given Moscow’s close ties with the country.
The declaration of “friendship without borders” by Presidents Xi and Putin shows how close the two countries have become. China’s diplomatic resolve is reflected in its decision to reaffirm this partnership despite external demands. From Beijing’s perspective, maintaining good bilateral relations does not conflict with its sincere desire for peace in Ukraine. Much of China’s support for Russia remains at the level of rhetoric, and although there are allegations of nonlethal aid, this aid does not directly fuel the war. China and Russia have conducted joint military exercises, but these should be viewed as ordinary bilateral activities and not as support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine. China’s role and diplomatic maneuvers will come under closer scrutiny as the crisis continues to unfold. However, the Chinese government sees its actions as a means to both protect its strategic interests and demonstrate its commitment to diplomacy and multilateralism.
4. What do you think China can use its influence to maintain balance in the ongoing conflict between Russia and the West?
As a global power with interests on both sides of the unfolding war between Russia and the West, China finds itself in a precarious situation. Beijing can choose a sophisticated strategy to maintain balance and project power. First, China has always supported the idea of a multipolar international order that prioritizes state sovereignty. Putin’s proposal for such a system is consistent with this.
Beijing has the diplomatic power to talk to both Moscow and the West and encourages discussion and negotiation to resolve disputes. China’s prominent position in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) provides a potential forum for such talks. The influence of the Chinese economy can help promote peace and tranquility. Beijing has a vested interest in ensuring that economic disruptions are kept to a minimum, given its significant investments in several Western countries and important trade links with Russia.
China’s membership in global financial organizations allows it to promote economic cooperation and investment in conflict-prone regions. As a major player in international organizations such as the United Nations, Beijing can use its influence to promote the peaceful resolution of crises and the upholding of international law. China has always respected the sovereignty of other countries and can use this principle to promote amicable conflict resolution.
China’s positive involvement in security problem solving can complement its diplomatic and economic power. China can contribute to efforts to reduce tensions and prevent the escalation of conflicts around the world. This strategy can be applied to promote economic growth and infrastructure construction in conflict-affected areas along the Belt and Road Initiative route. China can take things slow and avoid conflict to show that it is serious about maintaining peace and stability. By actively promoting communication, economic cooperation and respect for international principles, China can play a constructive role in maintaining balance in the ongoing struggle between Russia and the West.
Dr. Mohamad Zreik
He received his PhD degree in International Relations from Central China Normal University in 2021. His research interests include Chinese Foreign Policy, Belt and Road Initiative, Middle East Studies, China-Arab relations, East Asian Affairs, Eurasian Geopolitics and Political Economy. Mohamad has published many studies and articles in various journals and well-known international newspapers. He is the author of two published books on the Belt and Road Initiative in Lebanon and Chinese strategy in Eurasia.
