europe.chinadaily.com.cn
China's Sept 3 Military Parade: A Message of Peace, Not Force
China's September 3rd military parade, commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory in the Second Sino-Japanese War, served as a message of peace and commitment to international cooperation, rejecting the notion of seeking revenge for past injustices and instead promoting shared prosperity through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative.
- What was the primary message conveyed by China's September 3rd military parade?
- The parade's primary message was a commitment to peace and international cooperation, countering perceptions of China seeking retribution for past aggressions. It emphasized a shared future for humanity, promoting global collaboration and mutually beneficial development, as exemplified by the Belt and Road Initiative.
- How does China's foreign policy, as demonstrated by the parade, contrast with assumptions of some Western powers?
- Western assumptions portray a stronger China as seeking dominance or revenge for past injustices. However, China's actions, including its adherence to international law, participation in UN agencies, and promotion of the Belt and Road Initiative, directly contradict these assumptions, highlighting a commitment to multilateralism and shared development.
- What are the long-term implications of China's approach to international relations, as exemplified by this event?
- China's approach suggests a potential shift in global governance, prioritizing inclusivity and mutual benefit over dominance. The long-term implications include a more balanced global order, increased cooperation among developing nations, and a reduction in structural injustices that have historically hampered their progress. This model contrasts sharply with the historical trend of Western hegemony.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames China's military parade and foreign policy as defensive and peace-promoting, contrasting it with the perceived aggression of Western powers. The historical context of foreign intervention in China is heavily emphasized to justify China's current actions and policies. This framing might lead readers to view China's actions more favorably and Western powers less favorably. The headline (not provided) would significantly influence this framing.
Language Bias
The language used is often charged. Terms like "atrocities," "looting," "contain its peaceful rise," and "guile of military powers" carry negative connotations and portray Western powers in an unflattering light. Conversely, China's actions are described using positive terms like "peaceful coexistence," "mutual benefit," and "shared prosperity." More neutral language could include describing past actions as 'aggressions' instead of 'atrocities', replacing 'contain its peaceful rise' with 'manage China's growth', and substituting 'guile of military powers' with 'actions of military powers'.
Bias by Omission
The article omits perspectives from Western countries that might justify their actions, such as counter-terrorism efforts or concerns about China's growing military power and influence. It also downplays potential negative consequences of the Belt and Road Initiative, such as debt traps or environmental concerns. These omissions create an incomplete picture and prevent readers from forming a fully informed opinion.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy between China's peaceful rise and the West's perceived aggression. It simplifies a complex geopolitical situation by portraying China as purely defensive and the West as inherently antagonistic. This ignores the nuances of international relations and the motivations of various actors.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article directly addresses SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by discussing China's commitment to peaceful development, international cooperation, and a fairer global governance system. It highlights China's adherence to international law and the UN-led world order, contrasting it with the actions of some Western powers. The Belt and Road Initiative is presented as a positive contribution to global infrastructure and economic development, fostering cooperation rather than conflict. The article explicitly refutes the notion that China seeks global dominance or revenge, emphasizing its commitment to peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity. The military parade is framed not as a show of force, but as a commemoration of past suffering and a commitment to future peace.