The recent G7 summit held in Hiroshima saw world leaders addressing the growing challenge posed by China’s increasing authoritarianism and its weaponization of economic vulnerabilities. While acknowledging the interdependence between their economies and China, the G7 leaders expressed concerns over being held hostage by Beijing’s economic coercion tactics. The summit focused on developing a comprehensive strategy to counter China’s encroachments, protect trade and technology, and foster a global order that upholds international rules.
Navigating the Delicate Balancing Act:
The G7 leaders emphasized the need for a delicate balancing act, as they acknowledged their economies’ reliance on China while also recognizing the escalating competition and divergence of views on issues like human rights. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s assertion that China posed “the greatest challenge of our age” highlighted the seriousness of the situation and set the stage for the G7’s united response.
Condemning Economic Coercion:
The G7 leaders collectively condemned the disturbing rise of economic coercion tactics employed by China. The weaponization of economic vulnerabilities, aimed at undermining foreign and domestic policies, was identified as a significant threat to global security and prosperity. The G7 called for “de-risking” strategies, involving tougher diplomacy, diversification of trade sources, protection of trade and technology, and the establishment of a coordination platform with emerging economies to counteract China’s coercive measures.
Strengthening Supply Chains and Export Controls:
To mitigate the risks associated with economic coercion, the G7 leaders emphasized the need to strengthen supply chains for critical goods such as minerals and semiconductors. This move aims to reduce dependence on China and ensure the availability of essential resources even in the face of trade disruptions. Multilateral export controls were also highlighted as a crucial tool to prevent sensitive technologies, particularly those used in military and intelligence, from falling into the hands of malicious actors.
A Nuanced Approach:
While the G7 leaders did not explicitly name China in their statements, they sought a nuanced approach that would both placate Beijing and pressure it to cooperate. They made it clear that their policies were not designed to harm China or hinder its economic progress. The G7 emphasized the importance of a growing China that abides by international rules and expressed their willingness to engage in candid dialogue to address concerns. The aim was to maintain open communication lines while firmly asserting their shared expectations of China’s behavior on the global stage.
China’s Response:
China, anticipating the G7’s statements, responded with a mixture of anger and rhetoric. Accusing the G7 of smearing and attacking China, Beijing lodged a complaint with the summit’s organizer, Japan. China urged G7 countries not to become accomplices in the United States’ economic coercion and called for an end to the formation of exclusive blocs. It is worth noting that China has also been forging alliances with other countries, evident in its parallel meeting with Central Asian nations during the G7 summit.
Conclusion:
The G7’s united response to China’s economic coercion marks a significant step in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by Beijing’s increasing assertiveness. By condemning economic coercion, strengthening supply chains, implementing export controls, and advocating for a growing China that respects international rules, the G7 leaders have laid the groundwork for a rebalancing of economic relationships with China. While the path ahead remains uncertain, this comprehensive strategy is likely to be welcomed by those calling for a clear and coordinated approach to handle China’s encroachments. The G7’s nuanced stance reflects the delicate balance between preserving economic ties and safeguarding global security and prosperity in the face of China’s rise.