China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi criticized the U.S.’s ‘America First’ policy, warning against a return to a ‘law of the jungle’ that harms weaker nations. He emphasized the need for international cooperation and condemned unilateral actions, particularly those stemming from Trump’s administration. Wang portrayed China as a stable partner amid rising global tensions, especially regarding conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
China’s top diplomat, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, addressed concerns regarding the concept of a “law of the jungle” during a news conference, indirectly criticizing the United States without naming it. He emphasized that if all nations adopt a “my country first” mentality, it would lead to smaller countries suffering while undermining international norms. This statement was made during the annual “two sessions” meeting in Beijing, where Wang aimed to portray China as a stable global leader amidst rising tensions with the U.S.
In response to President Donald Trump’s recent tariff increases on Chinese imports, Wang articulated a firm stance: “No country should fantasize that it can suppress China on the one hand and develop good relations with China on the other.” He further stressed that selfish interests should not take precedence over international obligations and condemned power politics that exploit weaker nations.
Trump’s administration has significantly altered the United States’ global role by withdrawing from international agreements and reducing foreign aid, fostering an environment of distrust among traditional allies. Despite criticisms of China regarding its activities in the South China Sea and Taiwan, Chinese diplomats are attempting to leverage the current U.S. policy shifts to assert that China represents a more reliable partner in international affairs.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has provided China with an opportunity to counter U.S. narratives by strengthening ties with Russia. China’s special envoy for European Affairs, Lu Shaye, challenged critics of China’s relationship with Russia, suggesting that attention should first be directed at American policies. He argued that Europe should recognize the benefits of China’s foreign policy approach compared to the U.S., asserting that China’s network of allies is expanding.
Wang Yi reiterated China’s neutral stance on the Ukrainian conflict, positioning China as an advocate for peace while subtly promoting its partnership with Russia against perceived threats from NATO and the U.S. He asserted that security should not come at the expense of others, opposing Washington’s strategies in both Ukraine and Gaza. In response to Trump’s controversial proposal for Gaza, Wang noted that lasting peace requires commitment to humanitarian efforts and respect for Palestinian governance.
In summary, Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s remarks underscored China’s disapproval of the U.S.’s unilateral actions and its emphasis on the potential dangers of a self-centric foreign policy. He positioned China as an advocate for international cooperation and stability, particularly in light of current global conflicts such as the war in Ukraine and tensions in Gaza. Through this discourse, Wang sought to enhance China’s image as a reliable global leader.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
