Beijing is largely unconcerned by recent US actions. From a European perspective, China may now appear more reliable than the United States. But Chinese policies and strategic objectives have not changed.

Chinese President Xi Jinping used the recent gathering of over 25 heads of governments in Beijing to launch a new phase of China’s efforts to change the world order. European states should take note.

Despite the impact of US tariffs, China is getting closer to its goal of becoming a global power and reducing the hold that the West has over the rules-based international order.

A renewed anti-corruption drive has led to the dismissal of a remarkable number of defense ministers and Chinese top brass. This may dampen Xi Jinping’s appetite for conflict in the short term, but the Chinese president is pursuing the purge with his geopolitical goals in mind.