Hadeer Saeed: China's Journey Back to the World Stage
Throughout history, mentions of China have consistently evoked associations with a magnificent civilization and a great nation—a country renowned for its peaceful and credible nature, which demonstrates patience and a long-term perspective when safeguarding its interests. China has no intention of undermining the international environment, nor will it employ military force to threaten other countries, as it possesses neither expansionist ambitions nor a belief in military alliances. On the contrary, China is committed to leading the world through wisdom and becoming an exemplary model worthy of emulation.
From the 20th to the 21st century, China transformed from a country suffering under the yoke of colonial aggression and internal strife into a pivotal actor within the international order. Since the founding of the People's Republic of China, and particularly since the launch of Reform and Opening-up [1], the Chinese economy has achieved unprecedented growth. Hundreds of millions of people have been lifted out of poverty, large-scale infrastructure projects have reshaped the urban and rural landscapes, and innovation has become the cornerstone of national policy.
Today, China has become the world’s second-largest economy, a global manufacturing powerhouse, a leader in technological innovation, and a participant with increasing influence in international diplomacy and strategic domains. The achievements of modern China are not merely the fruits of economic reform, but the crystallization of a long history of struggle and challenges. From the unequal treaties imposed on China by Western powers in the 19th century to the great revolution of the mid-20th century, and from Reform and Opening-up to the present Chinese Dream [2], these historical accumulations are deeply rooted in the consciousness of the state and society. China's discourse system often unfolds around two key dimensions: the historical period of China’s "Century of Humiliation" [3] and the historical process of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. It is impossible to understand China’s various initiatives without considering these concepts, which form the foundation of its self-perception and its perception of the world.
Since 2013, China has been striving to become a world power with core influence and to promote the Sinicization of global concepts in practice. This process relies primarily on three pillars: first, building a strong China by achieving national rejuvenation aimed at national prosperity and strength; second, constructing a community with a shared future for humanity with Chinese characteristics; and third, contributing more Chinese wisdom and Chinese solutions to global governance.
Currently, China continues to propose global visions. For instance, the concept of a community with a shared future for humanity, based on the principles of moral leadership, multilateralism, dialogue, cooperation, and mutually beneficial partnerships, along with non-interference in internal affairs, common security, the relativity of values, soft power, developmental peace, cultural harmony, and digital dominance, will collectively shape a new world order. This Chinese solution is gaining extensive recognition from countries around the world, particularly those of the Global South, which yearn for a more secure and stable international order. This move will further consolidate China’s image and status as a vital major power in the global system; as China establishes its position as a critical force in the international system, its influence will expand daily.
Through the Belt and Road Initiative [4], China is attempting to establish a concept of globalization distinct from the Western-led model dominant since the 1980s, promoting the formation of a new type of globalization. This model demonstrates a higher degree of openness and balance, allowing participation regardless of a country’s form of governance or political ideological orientation; its focus on infrastructure projects highlights its inclination toward the interests of developing countries. Meanwhile, benefiting from the enhancement of its soft power, China continually strengthens its cultural confidence and improves its global image.
The world today is undergoing great changes unseen in a century [5], characterized by intensifying regional conflicts, frequent economic and humanitarian challenges, escalating cross-border crises, and a widening North-South divide. Following the three major initiatives—the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative—President Xi Jinping formally proposed the Global Governance Initiative at the "SCO Plus" meeting held in Tianjin.
Today’s world stands at a crossroads of history, where the old order is no longer capable of addressing the common challenges facing humanity. In this context, the global vision proposed by China is worthy of attention—not only because it originates from Chinese wisdom, but also because it responds to the urgent needs of a moment when the destiny of humanity is at stake. Whether scholars, policymakers, or ordinary citizens, our common future depends largely on how we understand and engage with the China story—its past, its present, and its future.