Chinese state media seizes on US killing of Iranian commander to paint Beijing as a force for stability
- Official outlets such have focused on the global wave of criticism of the US following the drone strike that killed Qassem Soleimani last week
- China wants to highlight its commitment to peace and international law
As tensions in the Middle East flare following the killing of a top Iranian military commander, China’s state media is seizing the chance to contrast its conduct of foreign affairs with those of the United States.
The main official media outlets have focused on global criticisms of the US following Friday’s drone attack in Baghdad, which killed Major General Qassem Soleimani, and asked what consequences the US would face.
This coverage highlighted China’s commitment to peace and international law and placed China’s international profile in opposition to the US.
“The responsibility of a great power is not its own national priorities, nor is it militarisation, but to take practical actions to safeguard international fairness and justice,” said an online People’s Daily commentary.
“As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China will continue to work with all parties concerned to maintain peace and security in the Middle East and the Gulf region,” said the commentary, one of several articles along similar lines run by the party mouthpiece in recent days.
Comments made by leading top Chinese diplomats and spokespeople in recent days have also followed similar lines.