A wolf warrior in sheep’s clothing

Beijing has embarked on a charm offensive since concluding its 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party in October.

China might have blunted its sharp power and abrasive diplomacy earlier in this crucial year for the CCP. Instead, Beijing announced a no-limits partnership, propped up the North Korean regime, and conducted dangerous military drills around Taiwan. Chinese President Xi Jinping’s opening remarks at the congress made credible fears that he was accelerating plans to seize Taiwan, the sine qua non for achieving China’s national rejuvenation. But China has also sought to improve its image since affirming Xi’s third term at the apex of power.