"China's Global Ambition: To Dominate or Collaborate?"

Chinese Public Divided Over Global Dominance or Shared Leadership A new study released this week by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs think tank in partnership with The Carter Center has revealed that the Chinese public is deeply divided over whether to seek global dominance or share leadership. According to the survey, a majority of people do not view the United States as a friend, but also favor a nuanced approach toward Washington. The study, which polled 1,200 Chinese citizens between June and August, found that 62% of respondents believed China should focus on its own development rather than seeking global dominance. However, 45% of those surveyed still expressed a desire for China to play a more prominent role in international affairs. The results highlight the complexities of China's foreign policy ambitions and the country's ongoing struggle to balance its domestic and global interests. The survey also revealed that the Chinese public is increasingly skeptical of the United States, with only 22% of respondents viewing the two countries as friends. This sentiment is not surprising given the recent tensions between the two nations, including trade disputes and disagreements over issues such as human rights and Taiwan's status. According to Dr. Bonnie Glaser, a senior advisor for Asia at the German Marshall Fund, "The Chinese public is not monolithic in its views on foreign policy, but rather reflects a range of perspectives that are shaped by factors such as age, education level, and geographic location." She added that while some respondents may be eager to see China assert itself globally, others are more cautious and prioritize domestic development. The study's findings have significant implications for China's foreign policy under the leadership of President Xi Jinping. As the country continues to navigate a complex web of international relationships, policymakers will need to balance competing demands from various stakeholders while also addressing the concerns of the Chinese public. In a statement, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that the government is committed to promoting peaceful development and cooperation with other nations, but also emphasized the importance of defending China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The spokesperson noted that "China will continue to play an active role in international affairs, while also prioritizing its own national interests." The survey was conducted as part of a broader effort by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs to better understand Chinese citizens' views on foreign policy issues. The study's findings are based on a representative sample of 1,200 respondents and have a margin of error of plus or minus 3%. As China continues to navigate its place in the world, policymakers will need to carefully consider the complexities of public opinion and balance competing demands from various stakeholders. With the country's economic and military power growing rapidly, the international community is watching closely to see how Beijing will choose to wield its influence. Background: The survey was conducted between June and August 2025. The study polled 1,200 Chinese citizens aged 18-65. The margin of error for the survey is plus or minus 3%. The Chicago Council on Global Affairs think tank partnered with The Carter Center to conduct the study. Sources: "Chinese public is divided over whether to seek global dominance or share leadership" (NPR Politics) "Battle for history: China's WWII anniversary rekindles legacy debate" (NPR News) This story was compiled from reports by NPR Politics and NPR News.