China, Russia and India’s “buddy show” in Beijing poses a growing threat to the West, a top UK think tank has warned.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting, fronted by Chinese President Xi Jinping, saw non-Western leaders, including Russian despot Vladimir Putin, standing alongside Indian leader Modi.
But experts warn today that it could lead to the formation of a new anti-Western alliance, with China walking away as the real winner.
Writing for the Express, Dr Alan Mendoza of the Henry Jackson Society warned the “buddy show” was “less the emergence of an alternate new world order, and more just the latest example of China’s ambitions unleashed”.
He warns that China “clearly strategically means us ill”, and while Russia and India may seek short-term gains, both could ultimately lose out from deepening ties with Beijing.
Despot, Vladimir Putin, the expert said, enjoyed “his moment out of isolation” but, with Moscow’s power waning, “China is the senior partner in the relationship now”.
India, meanwhile, is described as already “dependent on Chinese manufacturing” despite its booming economy.
Any deals with Beijing would leave Delhi with “one hand tied behind its back” in its bid to compete.
The piece also highlights unease at Xi’s vast military parade in Beijing, where the Chinese Army was out in force.
Dr Mendoza warned that, whilst Taiwan could be the most likely target, Russia and India “will be well aware that China could prove a fair-weather friend”.
The piece ends on a chilling note: “An anti-Western alliance may be Xi’s dream, but China’s ambitions may yet convince others that it is better not to do long-term deals with a devil.”
