Is China’s ascent to world supremacy accelerating too quickly? An analysis of Xi Jinping’s strategy, international reactions, and lessons from history’s great leaders.
Introduction: China’s Fast Track to Global Power
China has intensified its efforts to become a global superpower under President Xi Jinping. Through assertive military policies, expansive economic initiatives, and growing ideological influence, Beijing is working to reshape the world order.
Yet critics argue that Xi’s strategy may be overly ambitious and risky—especially when compared to the cautious, calculated approaches of earlier Chinese leaders. Has China misread the global moment, or is this boldness a strategic necessity?
From Deng Xiaoping to Xi Jinping: A Shift in Strategy
For decades, Chinese leaders like Deng Xiaoping, Jiang Zemin, and Hu Jintao followed a measured path of economic growth and diplomatic restraint—summed up in Deng’s famous guidance: “Hide your strength, bide your time.”
In contrast, Xi Jinping has redefined China’s posture on the world stage, adopting a far more assertive and confrontational approach. Key examples include:
- Growing hostilities in the East and South China Seas
- A deadly border clash with India
- Trade and political pressure on Australia
- Hong Kong’s imposition of new national security legislation
These actions project power and confidence but have also provoked significant backlash from the international community.
China’s Strategic Misstep After COVID-19
In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Beijing likely expected that struggling economies would increasingly turn to China for support and recovery. Xi’s administration may have viewed this as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to accelerate China’s rise—perhaps decades ahead of schedule.
But instead, the world responded with skepticism and caution:
- The U.S. and the European Union adopted tougher policies on China
- Asia’s neighbors became increasingly suspicious of Beijing’s aspirations.
- Global trust in China’s intentions sharply declined
Rather than seizing global leadership, China found itself facing growing resistance and suspicion.
Why Xi Jinping’s Strategy May Be Risky
1. Forcing Conflicts Undermines Global Trust
Military threats, economic coercion, and political pressure may achieve short-term goals—but they alienate potential partners. In today’s interconnected world, true power comes from building alliances, fostering influence, and earning trust.
2. Economic Power Has Its Limits
While initiatives like the Belt and Road have expanded China’s reach, they are increasingly scrutinized. Concerns about debt dependency, lack of transparency, and national sovereignty have prompted some countries to push back or renegotiate deals.
3. China Still Trails the U.S. in Critical Areas
Despite its rapid rise, China continues to lag behind the United States in key domains:
- Military technology and reach
- Global diplomatic influence
- Innovation leadership
- Cultural soft power and media presence
And most crucially, the U.S. maintains a network of powerful global alliances, something China has yet to match.
Leadership Lessons Xi Jinping Should Reconsider
Sun Tzu – The Wisdom of Strategic Patience
Chinese philosophy often draws on The Art of War, where Sun Tzu writes:
“The greatest victory is that which requires no battle.”
By rushing into conflict or confrontation, Xi may be disregarding this ancient principle of winning through strategy, not force.
Niccolò Machiavelli – Power with Prudence
Machiavelli famously wrote:
“A leader must know how to do wrong—and to do it wisely.”
A A good leader strikes a balance between timing, restraint, and forceful action. Overconfidence without prudence often leads to miscalculation.
Lee Kuan Yew – Intentions Must Be Clear
The former Prime Minister of Singapore once noted:
“People may not agree with all of your methods, but they will respect your intention if it’s for the nation’s good.”
China needs to make sure that its ascent is seen as a contributor to world peace and prosperity rather than a danger.
Deng Xiaoping – Always Keep Options Open
Deng’s counsel to “never abandon your final option” illustrates how adaptable strategy can be.
If China’s current trajectory turns out to be unsustainable, it must continue to be receptive to regional cooperation, diplomatic resets, and negotiation.
Conclusion: Rethinking the Road to Superpower Status
China’s ambitions to be the world’s dominant nation are neither surprising nor irrational. Every nation seeks growth, influence, and recognition. However, how that leadership is pursued matters deeply.
In today’s multipolar world, leadership requires more than economic power or military might—it demands trust, transparency, and collaborative vision.
Xi Jinping still has the opportunity to recalibrate China’s approach. By embracing diplomacy alongside strength, and balancing ambition with wisdom, China can pursue global leadership in a way that earns—not demands—respect.
