President Xi Jinping is hosting a major summit in China, bringing together more than 20 world leaders, including Narendra Modi and Vladimir Putin, in a bid to strengthen China's influence and challenge the dominance of the United States. The summit's guest list features not only traditional partners of China but also leaders from countries that have historically aligned with the United States, reflecting shifting geopolitical dynamics. Recent moves by the Trump administration, such as imposing tariffs on India and extending a warm welcome to Russia, have created opportunities for China to position itself as an alternative partner for these nations.

The summit is also accompanied by a military parade in Beijing, marking the end of World War II and underscoring China's narrative of military strength and historical significance. Xi Jinping is leveraging both diplomacy and history to advance China's ambitions, signaling to the world that China seeks a larger role in shaping global affairs. While China is presenting itself as a stabilizing force, questions remain about its reliability as a partner, especially for countries that prioritize democracy and human rights.