China’s permanent representative to the UN, Zhang Jun, has criticized NATO for being a “troublemaker” that perpetuates global tensions and adheres to Cold War thinking and ideological prejudice. In response to the communique issued by NATO members at the Vilnius summit, which accused China of pursuing coercive policies, Zhang dismissed the claims as slander and smearing China’s reputation.
Zhang highlighted that NATO claims to be a regional organization but violates its own principles by entering the Asia-Pacific region and destabilizing regional and global security. He argued that NATO encourages its members to increase military spending, cross borders, and provoke confrontation, despite portraying itself as a defensive alliance.
Furthermore, Zhang pointed out that NATO’s self-proclaimed championing of the rules-based international order contradicts its repeated violations of international law, interference in other countries’ internal affairs, and involvement in numerous wars that have resulted in civilian casualties. He noted that several NATO members promote double standards and contribute to regional tensions through nuclear sharing and alliances.
In response to these accusations, Zhang emphasized that China does not cause trouble but is not afraid of it. He warned that Beijing will firmly oppose any encroachment on its territorial integrity and national interests.
Zhang’s remarks follow China’s foreign ministry warning against NATO opening a liaison office in Japan, the first of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region. Despite initial considerations by Tokyo, the idea was not included in the NATO communique, reportedly due to France’s opposition, fearing it would aggravate China further.
It is crucial to analyze this situation from a broader perspective. NATO’s accusation of China’s coercive policies demonstrates growing concerns about China’s expanding global influence and the potential challenges it poses to the alliance’s security interests. On the other hand, China’s strong denial and portrayal of NATO as a troublemaker reflect its determination to protect its sovereignty and assert its position as a global power.
The tensions between China and NATO highlight the complexity of international relations in a changing world order. As major players seek to secure their interests, clashes of ideologies, narratives, and strategic objectives become inevitable. It remains to be seen how this relationship will evolve and whether diplomatic channels can be used to address these concerns and mitigate tensions.
In summary, China’s representative to the UN condemns NATO for perpetuating global tensions, accusing the alliance of Cold War thinking and ideological prejudice. Zhang refutes NATO’s claims against China as slander and emphasizes that the US-led military bloc violates its own principles by destabilizing regional security. The growing friction between China and NATO reflects the dynamics of a changing world order, where major powers clash over interests and strategic objectives. The resolution of these tensions will require diplomatic efforts and a nuanced understanding of each party’s concerns.
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