Speculation Surfaces over Xi Jinpings G20 Absence – Shiv Telegram Media
2 min readTitle: Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Surprise Absence at G20 Summit Raises Questions
In an unexpected turn of events, Chinese President Xi Jinping will not be attending the upcoming G20 summit in India, marking the first time in a decade that he has skipped the influential gathering of world leaders. As speculation runs rampant, experts wonder what might be behind his sudden decision.
While Xi has remained tight-lipped about his absence, several theories have emerged. Domestic political reasons are said to be a significant factor, as reports suggest that he faced criticism from powerful party members during a recent meeting in Beidaihe. The critique centered on the nation’s political, economic, and social conditions, leading to speculation that the president may be facing internal challenges.
Health concerns have also been hinted at as a potential reason for Xi’s absence. At the recent BRICS conference, he declined to deliver a speech, raising questions about his well-being. Rumors suggest that he may be battling a minor illness, but nothing concrete has been confirmed.
The rivalry between China and India, both major Asian economies, could also be playing a role. With India increasingly seen as a competitor for China in securing support from the Global South and advancing a Sino-centric order, Xi’s absence may be a signal of China’s concerns.
However, experts dismiss the possibility that ongoing border disputes between India and China are the primary cause of Xi’s withdrawal. While these issues strain relations between the two countries, analysts believe they are unlikely to have led to such a significant decision.
Although Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar downplayed Xi’s absence, stating that cancellations are not unusual, others have raised concerns. US National Security Adviser Jack Sullivan has expressed apprehension about China potentially playing a spoiler role at the summit, heightening tensions between major world powers.
Debate ensues surrounding whether Xi’s absence is a deliberate move to undermine the G20 in favor of the BRICS group. As China seeks to strengthen its influence on the global stage, some argue that Xi’s no-show at the G20 could be a strategic maneuver.
The absence of a face-to-face meeting between US President Joe Biden and Xi Jinping not only adds to the growing mistrust between the two countries but also hampers the diplomatic efforts between the two nations. The next opportunity for the leaders to interact will be at November’s Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco, and the weight of their meeting is amplified due to their inability to connect at the G20.
As the world eagerly watches developments, Xi Jinping’s absence at the G20 summit raises questions about China’s internal dynamics, global ambitions, and the evolving power dynamics among major nations.
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