Extra credit blog: China and globalization ——JIHAIIYUN
China and globalization are complex and contradictory topics. Since the reform and opening-up period, globalization has been crucial for China’s rise, and at the same time, China has played an increasingly important role in shaping globalization. Discussions from The Economist show that China’s journey with globalization is not only about adapting to global rules but also about reshaping the direction of globalization itself.
From the decisions made by the Chinese leadership, it’s clear that globalization is more than just economic growth for China. As mentioned in Introducing The Prince, Xi Jinping’s centralized leadership has not only driven domestic reforms but also strengthened China’s participation in global affairs. Under the framework of globalization, Xi has transformed China’s economic strengths into diplomatic and political influence, with the Belt and Road Initiative being a prime example. Through infrastructure projects, investments, and technology partnerships, China shares its development model with the world, especially developing countries. This helps China solidify its global trade position and shifts the international economic power balance.
However, this process is not without controversy. Some countries have raised concerns about the debt risks of Belt and Road projects, arguing that China’s globalization strategy primarily serves its own interests. From the perspective of Western nations, China’s approach to globalization might weaken existing global rules. As Do Universal Values Really Exist? Explains that the clash of values between China and the West presents a new challenge for globalization. China argues that Western “universal values” do not apply to all countries, which makes China’s stance in international affairs more independent and assertive. Western countries worry that China is trying to spread authoritarianism through globalization, making it serve non-democratic states. This conflict highlights the dual role China plays in globalization: both a beneficiary and a disruptor.
Even so, China’s contributions to globalization cannot be ignored. Economically, China has driven the development of global supply chains as the world’s factory and brought new vitality to the global economy through technological advancements. From consumers to businesses, Chinese products and innovations are everywhere. At the same time, China’s rise offers new options to countries with different cultural backgrounds, gradually shifting globalization away from Western dominance to a more multipolar model.
For China, globalization is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, open markets and international cooperation have brought tremendous economic benefits; on the other hand, intensified competition and geopolitical tensions are inevitable. For the world, China’s globalization strategy creates economic growth and new opportunities but also raises challenges for achieving harmony within diversity.
Is globalization good for China? Is China good for globalization?
I believe globalization is definitely good for China. It has allowed China to integrate into the world and achieve economic, technological, and cultural advancements. However, as globalization becomes more complex, China faces more challenges and restrictions. As for whether China is good for globalization, I think China has brought new energy to the process of globalization but has also created some conflicts. Finding ways to cooperate amid competition and to reach a consensus despite differences will shape the future relationship between China and globalization.
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