China is strategically pursuing long-term political and economic objectives across Taiwan, Asia, and Africa—efforts that reflect its broader ambition to become a dominant global power in the 21st century. These initiatives combine diplomacy, trade, security, and infrastructure to enhance China’s influence regionally and globally.
Taiwan: A Core Strategic Priority
For Beijing, Taiwan is not just a territorial claim—it is central to China’s national identity and long-term security strategy. The “One Country, Two Systems” concept, which was first suggested for Hong Kong, is the basis for the peaceful reunification that the Chinese government seeks because it views Taiwan as an integral part of its sovereign territory.
China views Taiwan’s growing ties with Western powers—especially U.S. arms sales and diplomatic visits—as a potential threat. Taiwan has increasingly modernized its defense systems, purchasing advanced fighter jets and missile systems from the United States to strengthen its deterrence capability.
Despite these tensions, many international observers—including former Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew—have remarked that China’s determination to unify with Taiwan will likely prevail in the long run, although the outcome and timeline remain uncertain.
Asia and Africa: Economic Expansion and Strategic Engagement
Beyond Taiwan, China has focused significant resources on expanding its economic and political influence across Asia, Africa, and even Latin America. This growth is a component of a larger strategy to:
- Secure access to natural resources such as rare minerals, oil, gas, and agricultural goods
- Develop overseas markets for Chinese products and technology
- Forge geopolitical partnerships with countries often overlooked by Western powers
This strategy’s cornerstone is now the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). In order to promote mutual development and increase economic reliance on China, China has inked trade and infrastructure agreements with over 60 nations through the BRI. These agreements include the construction of ports, highways, trains, and energy projects.
China’s participation has been welcomed by many Asian and African countries, who see it as a substitute for conventional Western financial institutions. However, critics warn of “debt-trap diplomacy”, where countries may become overly indebted to Beijing and vulnerable to Chinese influence.
Influence Over Force: China’s Strategic Doctrine
China’s international approach is less about confrontation and more about strategic leverage. By using trade, diplomacy, and development aid, Beijing seeks to build long-term partnerships without the need for military dominance.
This tactic reflects a political strategist Niccolò Machiavelli‘s idea:
“If you can win by deception, save your energy. No need to use your forces.”
While this quote doesn’t reflect official Chinese policy, it captures the underlying philosophy of winning influence through calculated moves rather than aggression. China’s focus on soft power, economic integration, and narrative control reflects a modern model of global leadership.
Conclusion: A Global Vision Through Regional Strategy
China’s objectives in Taiwan, Asia, and Africa reveal a coherent vision: secure its sovereignty, expand economic influence, and redefine global leadership. While tensions over Taiwan remain a potential flashpoint, China’s broader strategy relies on strategic investments, infrastructure diplomacy, and long-term engagement rather than outright conflict.
As global power dynamics continue to shift, understanding China’s multi-regional approach is key to interpreting the evolving international landscape. Whether one sees this strategy as cooperation or competition, its impact on the future global order is undeniable.
