The concept of a multipolar world refers to a world with multiple centers of power and influence. It insinuates that every nation should have equal rules, opportunities and rights as opposed to international affairs being monopolized with a few or certain powers. Thus, negating the current global order where the world is dominated with a single superpower or a bipolar rivalry that has categorized countries based on their strengths whereby stronger nations have the final say on all international matters. Such orders impact weak nations negatively, particularly developing nations which always fall victims of circumstances. A phenomenal example is the economic and financial crisis facing the world since the Great Depression. The crisis started within major global financial centers and spread throughout the global economy resulting into serious economic, social and political impacts, hence derailing global development. Its effects have mostly impacted developing countries to the level of threatening developmental opportunities, well-being and livelihoods due to their weak says on international issues. Therefore, the international order requires adjustments for other nations to also have a say in such matters.
China argues that a multipolar world must be orderly and equal with globalization that has economic inclusivity and universal benefits regardless of the size of a country. According to international specialists, a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization meets common needs of all nations, including developing ones. Therefore, the Chinese argument promotes true democracy in international relations where power politics and hegemony have no role. This is because a multipolar world will meet common needs of all nations and effectively addresses developmental imbalances within and between countries emanating from global resource allocations. However, efforts towards greater multi-polarity in terms of stability and constructiveness, requires observation of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter by all member states. This will ensure upholding basic recognized universal norms that govern international relations and practicing true multilateralism. China has positioned itself as anexample of upholding such principles so as to chart the future of humanity as well as the global direction. Its efforts in advocating for the sovereignty of other countries, promoting peace development as well as global stability and prosperity are unquestionable
The basis of Chinese approach to a multipolar world is influenced by President Xi Jinping’s strong believe that diplomacy can only be meaningful to all if it contributes to building a community with shared future for mankind. He has purposed to develop diplomacy with Chinese characteristics based on how the Chinese Communists view the world. According to China under CPC and President Xi Jinping, all nations have the capacity to contribute an idea on international matters based on their beliefs and culture as opposed to the current world order where international matters are decided by the strong nations. If the world adopts the Chinese line of thought, then consultative global governance will be achieved since future global conflicts will be reduced resulting into the world prospering as a single unit while enjoying universal security. More so, the Chinese approach is guided by the common values of humanity which demands coming up with a new type of international relations based on the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization initiative. It intends to bring countries together by building a high-quality Belt and Road Cooperation which will allow countries to face global challenges and achieve prosperity as one.
The Chinese proposal on an equal and orderly multipolar world is being accepted universally since most under privileged countries had no say on international issues, but simply implemented what had been decided regardless of its effects. President Xi Jinping has decided to speak for the voiceless based on his believe that humanity lives in the same global village and travel in the same boat. Thus, regardless of countries’ cultural, historical, geographical and systemic differences, they must strive towards protecting and bettering the Earth as our only inhabitable planet through building a community with shared future for mankind.
President Xi Jinping’s diplomacy with Chinese characteristics is successful given his involvement in the planning and execution of major diplomatic actions. His high-level strategic significance dialogues and heart to heart communication have contributed a lot to this success. His Belt and Road cooperation has also been successful and might move to a new stage of high-quality development. It is extending from Eurasian to Africa and Latin America not only through physical connectivity but also institutional connectivity and people-to-people bonding. This provides a high quality platform for international cooperation, opportunities and prosperity. The BRICS has also expanded and with its openness, inclusivity and win-win cooperation it will promote global growth and improve global governance. Lastly, choice for cooperation over violence by China has been a true demonstration of demystifying major-power competition that influences confrontations. China has taken a leading role in striving to promote ideal interactions between major countries with a view of achieving a multipolar world.
Authored by: Amb. Mohammed Ahmed Awil
Former Federal Republic of Somalia Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary To the People’s Republic of China
