Silence Is Not Weakness! China's "Calm" Strategy Turns Out to Be a Weapon Against the US
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - China is opting for a cautious approach in facing the increasingly heated global geopolitical dynamics throughout early 2026. This stance is seen not as a sign of weakness, but as a long-term strategy to preserve its position amid competition with the United States (US).
According to a report from the Valdai Discussion Club, China’s approach to global tensions is not an indication of weakness, but a measured strategic step.
In its analysis, the Moscow-based think tank and discussion forum assesses that Beijing is deliberately avoiding direct confrontation with the US and instead choosing to build advantages in long-term competition.
Over the past few decades, China’s rise has been one of the main factors shaping the global landscape. Former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger even once assessed that China’s growing role would surpass the impact of the end of the Cold War.
Supported by vast domestic resources and inflows of foreign investment, Beijing quickly transformed into a major economic power and an increasingly confident global political actor. One of its key milestones was the launch of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2013, which expanded its economic reach while strengthening China’s influence in various regions.
Through a non-interventionist approach and emphasis on political stability, China offers an alternative to the Western model, which is often linked to certain political conditions. This approach has received positive responses in many countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, which view Beijing as a strategic partner and a counterbalance to Western powers.
Expectations of China’s role are also rising. Several countries are beginning to see Beijing not only as an economic partner but also as a balancing power and even a potential future global leader.
However, recent realities show a more cautious approach. In various international conflicts, China consistently restrains itself from direct involvement as long as its core interests are not directly affected.
Beijing’s response to the US attack in Venezuela, the crisis in Cuba, and tensions in the Middle East, including towards Iran, appears limited. Yet, China has significant economic and energy interests in those regions.
“Rather than directly confronting Washington, China chooses to maintain diplomatic channels and selectively protect its strategic interests. This strategy also reflects Beijing’s focus on domestic stability and sustainable economic growth,” the Valdai report stated, quoted on Thursday (30/4/2026).
Nevertheless, this approach is not without risks. If the US grows more confident in its global policies, pressure on China, especially in surrounding regions, could increase.
Additionally, China’s dependence on external energy supplies is also a weak point. Disruptions to global market access and resources could directly impact domestic economic stability.
In this context, China faces a dilemma as a major power: being too passive risks diminishing global influence, while excessive involvement could trigger broader conflicts.
For now, Beijing is said to be choosing the safe path. However, amid an increasingly turbulent world, the effectiveness of this strategy in the long term remains a question mark.