During the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Chinese state media painted the United States as a declining power. A video from Xinhua depicted Uncle Sam with candles shaped like ballistic missiles that exploded over Iran, highlighting countries impacted by U.S. military actions such as Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya.
Political Tensions and Narratives
State media often serves as a platform for sharp narratives, portraying the U.S.—China’s geopolitical rival—as less viable compared to the governance model of the Chinese Communist Party. U.S. President Donald Trump praised American exceptionalism and warned against communism in a nationalist speech at Mount Rushmore, amidst criticism of U.S. political deadlock and divisive foreign policy.
Challenges Facing America
Xinhua described the American constitutional system as facing severe challenges, questioning its capability to solve internal problems and adapt to a multipolar world. Professor Wu Xinbo noted Washington’s diminished role in global events. China’s advancements in merchandise exports, high-speed rail, electric vehicles, and new energy sectors demonstrate strong progress against U.S. technological competition.
Future Outlook
Former editor Hu Xijin on Weibo stated that by America’s 300th anniversary, China may surpass the U.S. in national and technological strength. State media commentary differed from diplomatic approaches, with President Xi Jinping and Ambassador Xie Feng offering congratulations and promoting cooperation between Trump’s “Make America Great Again” and Xi’s “great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.”
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