China's Multipolar World Order Must Prove It Can Be Peaceful

As global leaders prepare to convene in New York for the 81st United Nations General Assembly with the theme 'Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation', China's aspiration for a multipolar world order faces significant scrutiny. A recent opinion article highlights that the primary issue is not the idea of multipolarity itself but rather the challenge of achieving 'orderly' coexistence. Middle powers are increasingly opting for a hedging strategy instead of aligning with one side, aiming for greater leverage among various power centers. However, this shift in power dynamics does not inherently create order. The emerging order's challenge lies in maintaining coexistence, not merely converging. For Beijing to implement its clearly defined vision, it must develop specific mechanisms, starting with institutional frameworks. The article, published in the South China Morning Post, emphasizes that China's multipolar vision must demonstrate its potential for peace, suggesting that without tangible mechanisms, the concept remains theoretical.