On the global stage, China announced a major decision that completely silenced Trump. On the surface, it appeared to be a concession under pressure from the United States, but in reality, it was a call to action for China's proactive strategy.

Opening of the United Nations General Assembly

Recently, at the annual United Nations General Assembly, Chinese officials solemnly announced that regardless of the present or future, China will no longer seek new "special treatment" in any World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations. This is the first time China has made such an announcement to the world. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that this is an important decision made by China in consideration of domestic and international situations.

This statement immediately sparked heated discussions in the international community. Foreign media seized this opportunity to "mock and ridicule," claiming that China's move was a forced concession under pressure from Trump. Previously, Trump had criticized China for not being a "developing country" while enjoying the preferential policies reserved for developing countries, which was a key point of contention in the Sino-US trade conflict.

However, Western countries might have been too hasty in their celebration. Although China has announced that it will no longer seek "special treatment," the fact that China is a developing country has not changed. It's just that China will no longer take advantage of these so-called "benefits." Since 2001, China has been a member of the WTO for over 20 years.

China joined the WTO in 2001

Over the past two decades, China has achieved rapid economic development and growth by leveraging this global stage, and has also made significant contributions to the development of the world economy. However, China's development has always been criticized by the West. In recent years, Western countries have even used so-called "rules" to oppress China. Now, China needs to change its approach and strive for more voice and influence.

Special and differential treatment is a flexible arrangement provided by the World Trade Organization for developing members. It allows developing countries to have longer transition periods, partial rule exemptions, and technical assistance when fulfilling their agreement obligations. China's official statement is a strategic adjustment made as its economic strength increases.

Headquarters of the WTO

Abandoning the pursuit of new special treatment means that China will bear similar levels of obligations as developed countries in future WTO negotiations. In the short term, this may bring competitive pressures to certain industries. However, from a long-term perspective, this decision will drive China's industries to enhance their core competitiveness through technological innovation.

This move will also strengthen China's voice in the formulation of international trade rules. When China participates in negotiations with a more equal status, its proposed rule suggestions will receive more attention. In other words, China aims to shift from being a rule acceptor to a rule maker, and Western countries can no longer ignore China's voice by citing that China "enjoys special treatment."

More importantly, this move will inject new certainty into Sino-US economic and trade relations. The United States has previously criticized China for abusing its developing country status and demanded that China give up this position. Now, through active adjustments, China has promoted the development of Sino-US relations and also silenced Trump.

United Nations General Assembly

When Western countries again use the so-called "policy dumping" to defame China, China now has sufficient reasons to counterattack. Unlike the US's "club-style rules," China advocates "shared open policies." Abandoning new special and differential treatment is a specific manifestation of China's commitment to being a "responsible major power," and it will also earn China more trust and support.

For China, this is an important sign of becoming a mature major power. China's stance demonstrates to the world that true global leaders do not seek privileges, but take on responsibilities.

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7553520477243851315/

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