Description
The beginning of the 21st century is witnessing the change in the distribution of power among the major nations of the world, the most prominent being ‘Rise of China’ due to its industrialisation.
Following Mao’s death and Deng Xiaoping’s assertion of power, China embarked upon the policy of Reform and Opening Up. Under the slogan “hide your capabilities and bide for your time”, China made massive progress in the domestic economy. Four “-isations” (si hua) were driving developments in this period. China adopted an independent Foreign Policy for Peace and Development. The focus has shifted to international economic relations, energy, propaganda, and education.
In March 1997, during ASEAN Regional forum, Jiang Zemin mooted the ‘New Security Concept’ (xin anquan guandian) whereby he said Old Security Concept based on military and alliances is not sustainable. In 2003 Chinese Leaders first introduced the term ‘Peaceful Rise’, however in April 2004 at Boao Asia Forum it was replaced by ‘Peaceful Development’ mainly to encounter China Threat Theory propounded by the west.
China’s perception of viewing the world has changed from a victimhood mentality to a Great Power mentality. A confident, robust, assertive China under the leadership of Xi Jinping declared the Chinese Model as an alternative to the Western model of development and politics (Washington Consensus).
This paper, “Assertiveness in Chinese Foreign Policy: changes in Formulation and Behaviour post-Deng Xiaoping Reforms” is an attempt to analyse Chinese Foreign Policy Formulation and Behaviour as a result of the increase in China’s Comprehensive National Strength.
