China and Global Governance: A More Active Role on a Selective Basis

Abstract

China is under international pressure to provide more global public goods commensurate with its international status. While China has generally remained cautious in assuming too many responsibilities, there are signs that it is playing a more active role in at least two areas. First, China appears to be focused on reshaping the international economic and financial order to its advantage. In particular, it is actively pushing for the establishment of new financial institutions to, in its own words, complement existing multilateral development banks. Second, in combating piracy off the coast of Somalia, China has stepped up efforts to play up the softer aspects of its hardware contributions. These two aspects manifest a China that is ready and confident in providing the public goods that the international community welcomes.