China's global ascent demands Western acceptance, not containment

An editorial suggests that the West ought to genuinely acknowledge China's emergence as a significant global power, addressing it with respect and insight instead of viewing it as a threat. The piece reflects on the evolution from the 1996 publication 'China Can Say No' to the current situation, where China wields considerable influence through its control over global supply chains, rare earth elements, and green technologies. China's assertiveness is clear in its robust reactions to Western accusations and sanctions. Initially, the U.S. targeted Chinese tech firms like Huawei and TikTok, implementing semiconductor export restrictions, and China's replies were mostly verbal. However, this has evolved. Recently, a series of Western leaders have traveled to Beijing, anxious about lost prospects in the world's second-largest economy.