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Beijing seizes diplomatic space as Washington turns inward.

China’s Small Steps Appear Bigger Next to Trump’s Retreat.

At the UN General Assembly, China projected itself as a responsible global power, contrasting sharply with Donald Trump’s retreat from climate and trade commitments. Premier Li Qiang criticised protectionism, vowing that Beijing would forgo developing-nation trade benefits at the WTO, while President Xi Jinping pledged China’s first concrete emissions target. Though Xi’s climate goals—cutting emissions by just 7–10%—fell short of the 30% reduction scientists say is necessary, the announcement was timed against Trump’s dismissal of climate change, amplifying Beijing’s image as a leader. Analysts argue China is leveraging America’s withdrawal to champion “true multilateralism,” embracing forums like the UN, WHO, and Paris accord to position itself as a stabilising force. Sceptics warn that China’s pledges remain modest, and its trade practices problematic. Still, with Washington pulling back, even incremental moves by Beijing appear magnified on the global stage.