Pre-reading questions:
- What do you think are the most important qualities of a leader?
- In your opinion, what do all of the most developed countries have in common?
Vocabulary:
- stance – an attitude or view about an issue that you state clearly
Many citizens agree with the governor’s stance on tax reform. - diplomacy – the conduct of the relations of one state with another by peaceful means
Diplomacy is almost always better than public threats. - acquisition – the process of buying something or obtaining something
The young woman’s acquisition of paintings is from her deceased uncle. - colonialism – a situation in which one country rules another
Colonialism gave bigger nations a way to get the resources of smaller countries. - dauntlessness – strength of mind to carry on in spite of danger
His dauntlessness won over his fear.
China is becoming more powerful as the country becomes more globally competitive. With the help of President Xi Jinping’s aggressive political stance, he was able to build stronger relationships with different countries in the world. He effectively uses diplomacy to influence foreign policies as well. However, serious concerns are brewing from some countries as they question Beijing’s political interference.
China’s involvement in trade, infrastructure, domestic politics and acquisition of foreign technologies alarmed the governments in Australia, Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Although, some countries in Southeast Asia and Africa complain about a new era of Chinese colonialism, Beijing has also struggled to influence global opinion. President Xi’s dauntlessness stems from the benefits he got from President Trump’s election. It paved way in presenting China as a stable alternative to the United States.
Comprehension Questions:
- What are some countries in Southeast Asia and Africa complaining about?
- How did China build stronger relationships with different countries?
- Why are the governments in Australia, Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa alarmed?
- How has China benefited from President Trump’s election?
Express Your Opinion:
- Do you believe that China will become the most powerful country in the world? Discuss.
- In your opinion, how important is building strong relationships with other countries? Please explain your answer.
- Do you think a powerful country should meddle in another country’s political affairs? Please explain your answer.
- How do you think a country ends up being more powerful than another?
- Do you agree that China is a more stable alternative to the United States in terms of trade? Please explain your answer.