How US actions in Venezuela and beyond could spell opportunity for China
Beijing is trying to present itself as a more responsible power, but analysts say concrete actions will be needed to win over its neighbours
But this could also be a diplomatic opening for China as it tries to portray itself, in contrast, as a more responsible and stabilising power.
Patricia Kim, a fellow specialising in Chinese foreign policy at the Washington-based Brookings Institution, said the US abduction of Nicolas Maduro and his wife had given Beijing an opportunity to present itself as the more benevolent and responsible great power but its actions were ultimately what mattered most.
“Its neighbours in Southeast Asia will be watching closely how China conducts itself in disputed maritime waters, because that is where Beijing’s claims about restraint and responsibility are most directly tested,” she said.
