Xi Jinping Criticizes U.S. ‘Bullying Practices’ as China Pushes Global Leadership at SCO Summit
Tianjin, China — Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a veiled criticism of the United States on Monday, condemning “bullying practices” while promoting China’s vision of global leadership at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, co-hosted with Russia.
Xi’s Push for Global Governance
“The house rules of a few countries should not be imposed on others,” Xi told more than 20 world leaders gathered in the northern port city. The summit highlighted China’s expanding role in shaping international order, alongside Russia, as both powers aim to challenge U.S. dominance.
Xi pledged 2 billion yuan ($280 million) in grants for SCO members this year and an additional 10 billion yuan ($1.4 billion) in loans over the next three years. He emphasized strengthening trade, investment, and economic cooperation among member states, urging them to “leverage mega-sized markets” for shared growth.
He also unveiled a Global Governance Initiative, building on his previous proposals on security, development, and civilization. Xi said he hoped to work with other countries to create a “fairer and more equitable” international system, while advocating multilateralism and greater representation for developing nations.
“We should continue to dismantle walls, not erect them; seek integration, not decoupling,” Xi said, in remarks widely interpreted as a challenge to U.S.-led alliances such as NATO.
Subtle Rebuke of the United States
Though he did not name Washington directly, Xi’s references to “hegemonism,” “Cold War mentality,” and “bullying practices” echoed Beijing’s long-standing criticism of U.S. foreign policy. His comments come at a time when President Donald Trump’s ‘America First’ approach — including trade wars, aid cuts, and withdrawals from international bodies — has unsettled global partners.
Xi argued instead for a multipolar world order, with fairer power distribution at institutions like the United Nations.
Putin Supports Xi’s Vision
Russian President Vladimir Putin echoed Xi’s message, describing the SCO as the foundation for a new Eurasian security system that would move beyond what he called outdated Western models.
“This new system will be balanced, represent the interests of the widest range of countries, and prevent some states from pursuing their security at the expense of others,” Putin said.
The summit also displayed the close rapport between Xi and Putin, who were seen smiling and chatting warmly at a welcome banquet. Their partnership comes as Russia faces continued Western pressure over its war in Ukraine.
Ukraine War in Focus
Putin used his speech to reiterate Moscow’s stance on the Ukraine conflict, blaming the crisis on a Western-backed coup rather than Russian aggression. He pointed to discussions with Trump in Alaska, saying their talks “opened the way to peace in Ukraine.”
Experts say Putin sought to demonstrate that Russia is not isolated globally and continues to enjoy strong support from China.
India’s Balancing Act
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also featured prominently at the summit. He reaffirmed India’s long-standing relationship with Russia while carefully navigating tensions with China.
During a private meeting with Putin, Modi expressed support for recent peace initiatives, emphasizing the importance of ending hostilities in Ukraine. “We welcome all efforts toward peace and support initiatives that bring us closer to a durable settlement,” he said.
SCO Summit: A Diplomatic Showcase
Chinese officials promoted this year’s SCO as the largest yet, with leaders from across Asia and the Middle East attending. Members include China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Iran, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
Later this week, Xi is expected to host a massive military parade in Beijing, attended by Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and other dignitaries, highlighting China’s growing global influence and its challenge to the U.S.-led order.