XI JINPING’S FOREIGN POLICY; A CRITICAL CHALLENGE FOR THE US

Abstract

China under Xi Jinping became more assertive, bold, and engaged in global affairs, presenting critical challenge to the US. In the last decade, China manifested shift in its foreign policy and quitted risk aversive approach. China previously adhered to the principles of keeping low profile and remained concerned about economic development. China under Xi quitted the policy of keeping low profile and launched a strategy of striving for achievement as he has faith in power unlike Deng who had faith in wealth. Beijing’s assertive foreign policy, growing economic and military capabilities, territorial disputes in South China Sea and new global initiatives demonstrate a departure from its previous cautious approach. Xi Jinping played role in bringing about shift in the external affairs of China, reflecting his vision. US, as a dominant global player feels threaten with the foreign policy of China, pursued by the incumbent president. So far, US has enjoyed considerable influence in many parts of the world is being challenge by the China’s growing influence and increasing global role. US has been grappled to sustain its primacy on the face of China’s assertive foreign policy and ambitious global goals. This Paper examines shift in China’s foreign policy with the Xi arrival to power and how the country’ new initiatives and trends on foreign policy front present a critical challenge to the US. It also investigates the Xi’s role in China’s foreign policy. Furthermore, the paper discusses the China’s assertive approach to external affairs, aggressive take on Taiwan and South China Sea, and diplomatic engagement. In the last part of the paper, it is investigated that how China’s partnership diplomacy, aiming at to increase Chinese influence in different significant regions, presents critical challenge to the US.