Premier Li Qiang will represent China at this weekend’s G20 summit in New Delhi, according to the Chinese foreign ministry. This comes as President Xi Jinping has decided to skip the summit, raising questions about China’s commitment to the G20. The absence of Xi Jinping puts a question mark on Beijing’s sincerity, especially considering the strained ties with India since the Galwan clashes. China has previously opposed several Indian initiatives at G20 meetings, and its obstructionist behavior indicates reservations about India’s leadership on the global stage.
China’s objection to the inclusion of the Sanskrit phrase ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ in G20 documents, its opposition to matters such as Mission LiFE and women-led development, and its obstruction of discussions on tackling climate change at G20 meetings are all examples of its divergent views and obstructionist behavior. China even refrained from participating in the tourism meet held in Srinagar. These actions reflect Beijing’s reservations about India’s role as a leader of the Global South.
The decision by Premier Li Qiang to attend the G20 summit instead of President Xi Jinping is seen as a significant development. Li Qiang, who became China’s eighth premier in March, is part of the Chinese Communist Party Central Committee Politburo Standing Committee. President Xi Jinping’s absence could be interpreted as a symbolic move that sends a message to India and other G20 member states.
Tensions between India and China have been on the rise due to unresolved territorial issues. Last week, India lodged a strong protest against China’s 2023 ‘standard map’ that includes Indian territory claimed by China. This map showed Arunachal Pradesh as part of South Tibet and Aksai Chin as China’s territory, which India views as occupied by China since the 1962 war.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping had informal discussions on the sidelines of the Brics summit in Johannesburg last month. During the meeting, Modi expressed India’s concerns about unresolved issues along the Line of Actual Control in the western sector.
In conclusion, Premier Li Qiang’s representation at the G20 summit raises doubts about China’s commitment to the G20. China’s past opposition to Indian initiatives and obstructionist behavior at G20 meetings indicate reservations about India’s leadership. President Xi Jinping’s absence further adds to the speculation. India’s recent protests against China’s territorial claims have intensified tensions between the two countries. The G20 summit in New Delhi will be closely watched to assess China’s attitude towards global cooperation and relations with India.
