China is planning to more vigorously flex its money and military muscle in the global arena
As mentioned recently in this journal, China is planning to undergo a significant booster change over the next 28 years to transform itself into a further “great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation”. Of course, its unbridled ambition to control the world’s economy and grow its influence into all corners of the world, a la the British Empire of yore, has been an open secret for years now. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a burning example and manifestation of this wanton desire, covering nearly 70 countries and international organisations. It is quite eager to extend significant amounts of financial loans to smaller countries which are strategically located and where the economy is in the doldrums. Or, it offers to undertake infrastructural development work on their premises. But these offers/deals are far removed from even an iota of the sense of philanthropy. The basic thrust of Beijing’s “good intentions” is to completely take over or buy up every possible strategic asset overseas, including strategically located swathes of land or critical installations like airports and water ports.
An example would be the “String of Pearls”, which is a geopolitical theory to the network of Chinese intentions in the Indian Ocean Region. Of course, there are counter-forces at work, too, to try and contain its malevolent designs across countries and continents. While US President Joe Biden, and his predecessor Donald Trump earlier, have made their dislike for the Chinese expansionist plans quite openly, an astute Biden had cautioned China soon after taking office that his country would do everything in its power to clip the growing wings of the dragon. In the same breath, however, he proclaimed that Washington would not be found shy of working with Beijing in cases where it suits the former’s interests. Then there’s the case of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), which comprises India, the US, Japan and Australia. Since this diplomatic and military arrangement was widely viewed as a response to increased Chinese economic and military power, the touchy Chinese Government responded to it by issuing formal diplomatic protests to its members. It is in this context that Chinese President Xi Jinping’s loud proclamations at the Communist Party of China’s centenary celebrations should be seen.