Strongmen assemble: Putin, Kim and Xi in Beijing

In this episode, Noshin Iqbal reports on a significant week for China, focusing on Xi Jinping's recent invitation to global leaders for a summit in Beijing that took place alongside a grand military parade. The gathering included over 20 world leaders, among them Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un, emphasizing a united front of autocratic regimes. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit served as a platform for China to assert itself as an alternative to U.S. dominance, highlighting instability in U.S. foreign policy under recent administrations.

The military parade showcased advanced military technology, including hypersonic missiles and cutting-edge jets, which symbolizes China's military might and strategic aspirations, particularly concerning Taiwan. The event was also a display of China's historical narrative regarding World War II, attempting to reset perceptions of its role in the war and portraying itself as a bastion of peace.

Despite the grand display of unity, tensions remain among the participating countries, particularly due to unresolved disputes between India and China. While there is a sense of nationalism and support for Xi's assertive policies domestically, there is also discontent among some citizens regarding his authoritarian style of leadership. Overall, the episode encapsulates China's strategic goals and the implications of its growing influence on global geopolitics.