In a surprising turn of events, China’s President Xi Jinping has opted not to attend this year’s Group of 20 (G20) Summit, scheduled for September 9-10 in Delhi, India. Instead, Premier Li Qiang will represent China at the international gathering of world leaders. While the official reasons behind Xi’s absence have not been disclosed, several factors hint at why the Chinese leader has chosen to stay away from the summit.
1. Disputed Territories and Map Controversy
One prominent factor is the recent release of what China termed a “standard map” that lays territorial claims over regions like Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin, Taiwan, and the South China Sea. While China annually releases such maps, it marked the first time India strongly protested against the claims, categorically rejecting China’s assertions. The timing of this map release, just days before the G20 Summit, raised eyebrows and added tension to already strained relations.
2. Border Tensions and Historical Conflict
China and India have a history of border disputes that have led to military confrontations, with the most recent clash occurring in the Ladakh region three years ago, resulting in the tragic loss of 20 Indian soldiers’ lives. This incident escalated into a prolonged standoff in the rugged Himalayan terrain, where both sides deployed significant military forces, including artillery, tanks, and fighter jets.
3. Trade Frictions and Geopolitical Alliances
Economic frictions and India’s growing strategic alignment with China’s main rival, the United States, have exacerbated tensions. Both nations have expelled each other’s journalists, and economic disagreements have added fuel to the fire.
4. Symbolic Diplomacy and East-West Dynamics
Some experts speculate that Xi Jinping’s absence from the G20 Summit, following his participation in the BRICS Summit, might symbolize China’s narrative of “East is rising, and the West is falling.” This could also serve as a display of solidarity with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has also opted out of the G20 Summit.
5. Focus on Domestic Priorities
Xi Jinping has increasingly emphasized domestic issues, particularly national security. His preference for foreign leaders to visit China instead of him traveling abroad might explain his decision to skip international events like the G20 Summit. This approach underscores his focus on maintaining stability and control within the country.
Despite President Xi’s absence, Premier Li Qiang will represent China at the G20 Summit, where global leaders will address critical issues such as climate change, economic recovery, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. While Xi’s decision to skip the summit may raise questions about China’s diplomatic strategy, it reflects the complex and evolving dynamics of international relations in a rapidly changing world.
In the wake of Xi’s absence, world leaders will convene in Delhi to discuss these pressing global challenges and seek common ground on issues that affect us all.
Sources By Agencies
