Xi Jinping Showcases Military Might While Forging New Alliances

Xi Jinping presided over a significant display of China’s military power during a parade in Beijing on September 3, 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. This event coincided with a pivotal week for China in terms of its geopolitical ambitions, as the nation seeks to establish a new framework for international relations that challenges the dominance of the United States and its European allies.

Earlier in the week, on September 1, Xi hosted leaders from 26 countries in Tianjin for a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The SCO, which includes notable members such as Russia, India, Pakistan, Iran, and several Central Asian states, aims to enhance economic and security cooperation across Eurasia. The gathering served as a platform for Xi to promote China’s growing influence and diplomatic outreach.

A particularly striking moment from the summit occurred when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin walked hand in hand along a red carpet to meet Xi. This gesture underscored a united front against recent tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump, which include a 50 percent levy on Indian goods. Trump’s actions have caused friction, particularly his claims of mediating an end to last year’s armed conflict between India and Pakistan. This situation threatens to undermine 25 years of American efforts to position India as a counterbalance to China’s rise in Asia.

Historically fraught, India-China relations have shown signs of thawing in recent months. Following their long-standing border disputes, Modi and Xi announced on September 1 the restoration of direct flights between their countries, indicating a potential shift towards improved ties.

At the summit, Xi introduced the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), aiming to reform the international system established post-World War II. The initiative aims to reshape existing structures while advocating for sovereign equality and non-interference in the internal affairs of states. This message resonates strongly with many nations in the Global South, particularly those that oppose the legitimacy of economic sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union.

The scepticism surrounding these sanctions extends beyond immediate targets such as Russia and Iran, reaching countries that feel their trade is unjustly restricted due to conflicts in which they are not involved.

The military display in Beijing, with advanced weaponry showcased prominently, may evoke concern among China’s neighbors and the population of Taiwan. Yet, the diplomatic developments in Tianjin are likely to have a more enduring impact on the global geopolitical landscape than any military demonstration. By fostering new alliances and promoting a vision of a multipolar world, China is signaling its intent to reshape the international order in a way that aligns with its national interests and aspirations.