At the Palace of the People, a high place of Chinese culture, President Xi Jinping received his American counterpart, Donald Trump, with the splendor worthy of a millennia-old culture. In addition to the trappings of an expanding power, China reveals to the world the splendors of its ancient civilization. A symbol of stability in an era where everything seems to change quickly, China stages its imperial history, arts, and way of life, as if all of it remained impervious to the passing time. Immutable grandeur, heightened patriotism, but also defended interests: this is how the Chinese president addresses the American head of state.
Regarding the economic openness to US companies, as well as the thorny issue of Taiwan, China flexes its muscles. While being welcoming on an economic level, it knows how to assert itself militarily. The Americans are warned: Taiwan’s fate will depend on Beijing’s willingness. The region constitutes a sovereign space for China, which aims to reclaim its territory one day.
Concerning President Trump’s power logic (which is illustrated notably in Venezuela, Panama, Cuba, and possibly tomorrow in Greenland), the Chinese intend to act likewise. Never since the fall of the Berlin Wall has the desire for territorial protection been so strong. The logic of power is pervasive, whether it’s Russia with Ukraine, China with Taiwan, or the United States with the resurgence of the Monroe Doctrine.
While Chinese and American giants face off in Beijing, amidst cannon fire and military parades, historical pride and waving flags, Brussels appears apathetic, sluggish, and sidelined. Europe, once a dominant force in the world, is transforming into a cold, disembodied technostructure that impedes national sovereignty and stifles any attempt at power reconstruction.
(FC: The mention of intense power competition between major nations highlights the global geopolitical tensions and power struggles existing in the modern world.)
(FC: The article criticizes the European Union’s lack of cohesive action and emphasis on national cultures and power dynamics in the face of increasing global competition.)
(A quote within the article criticizes the European Union for hindering power initiatives and emphasizes the importance of enhancing national cultures and power dynamics for survival in the current world order.)
(Author notes the need for Europe to prioritize power dynamics and enhance national cultures to ensure its survival and relevance in the global landscape.)
