At the SCO Summit in Tianjin, President Xi Jinping sought to portray China as resilient and influential, despite mounting economic headwinds. With the world watching, Xi rallied leaders from across Asia—offering grants, loans, and infrastructure promises to counter U.S. tariffs and strategic pressure. But behind the display of unity lie deeper contradictions. China’s economy is slowing, its trade ties with the U.S. remain vital, and its selective approach to security raises questions. As Beijing courts allies through financial diplomacy, many SCO members seek options—not dominance. The summit showcased Xi’s ambition but also the limits of China’s emerging world order.
