Xi Jinping has hosted more than a dozen leaders this year, as ‘middle powers’ look beyond the US

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has hosted numerous world leaders this year as part of a strategic effort to build influence and offer an alternative to Western-led global orders. Analysts suggest this trend reflects a growing desire among 'middle-power' nations to diversify their diplomatic ties beyond the United States.
Why it matters
This shift in diplomatic activity highlights a potential realignment in global power dynamics as nations seek to navigate tensions between China and the West.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping visits villagers near Dezhou city on Wednesday. Xi has hosted at least 17 world leaders so far this year. Photograph: Xinhua/Shutterstock View image in fullscreen Chinese leader Xi Jinping visits villagers near Dezhou city on Wednesday. Xi has hosted at least 17 world leaders so far this year. Photograph: Xinhua/Shutterstock Xi Jinping Analysis Xi Jinping has hosted more than a dozen leaders this year, as ‘middle powers’ look beyond the US Amy Hawkins in Beijing and Alastair McCready in Taipei China’s leader wants to promote his alternative to the current world order, and his efforts are being assisted by a capricious US
The framing emphasizes a 'capricious US' and suggests a deliberate shift away from Western influence, reflecting a critical perspective on current US foreign policy.
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