The Year of the Snake holds a special significance in Chinese culture, symbolizing transformation and change. Historically, it has seen both prosperous and turbulent times. Notable individuals born during this period include the Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, who revolutionized our understanding of the universe, and German literary giant Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, whose work shaped the world of literature.
However, in Chinese tradition, the Year of the Snake also marks periods of transformation on a national scale. Reflecting on past years, one cannot ignore the challenges posed during previous Snake years, such as the Great Depression and the Wall Street Crash of 1929, and the global upheaval of 2001, which saw the tragic September 11 attacks and China’s accession to the World Trade Organization — a turning point that helped accelerate the country’s economic rise.
Looking at 2024, two prominent global trends have shaped the geopolitical landscape. One is the worsening crisis in the Middle East, highlighted by the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The violence, broadcast live across the world, has led to international condemnation, particularly of US support for Israeli actions. In contrast, China has positioned itself as an ally of ordinary people, elevating its stature on the global stage, especially in regions outside the West and its allies.
The second trend is the continued rise of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), signaling a shift in global economic power. In 2024, new members, including Indonesia, joined the bloc, further strengthening its influence. The expansion of BRICS and its impact on global trade is seen as a challenge to US economic dominance, particularly as the US dollar’s supremacy as the world’s primary reserve currency begins to wane.
With these global shifts in mind, the outlook for 2025 seems favorable for China. While challenges persist — including the potential return of former President Donald Trump to the White House, with promises of punitive tariffs on Chinese goods — China’s resilience and self-reliance may mitigate any negative impact. Historical patterns show that China’s spirit of independence, a cornerstone of its culture, will likely enable it to weather such external pressures without compromising its economic and social development.
China’s commitment to self-reliance, alongside its emphasis on education, harmony, and problem-solving, has been key to overcoming historical adversities. Three core principles continue to guide the country’s progress:
Commitment to Peace: Despite Western media portrayals, China is fundamentally a peace-loving nation. Unlike the US, which has been embroiled in conflict throughout its history, China prioritizes stability and avoids war. The historical “century of humiliation” has taught China the importance of strength for national security, but this does not equate to an inclination toward military aggression.
Sustainability and Environmental Leadership: China has emerged as a global leader in the green revolution, spearheading efforts in electric vehicles (EVs), solar power, and wind energy. Its dedication to reducing pollution and transitioning to a sustainable economy is evident in its leadership of the global EV market. While Western nations criticize China’s production levels, their concerns are largely driven by fear of losing market share, rather than genuine environmental concerns. This reflects the broader hypocrisy of global trade practices, where “over-production” is only criticized when it threatens Western dominance.
Technological Advancements: China is catching up with the West in technological innovation, and in some sectors, it has surpassed it. In space exploration, China made history as the first country to return lunar rock samples from the far side of the moon. Despite attempts to hinder its progress, Chinese tech giant Huawei remains a leader in telecommunications, and the country is a frontrunner in artificial intelligence (AI) development. AI, despite its controversies, is rapidly shaping the global geopolitical landscape and will continue to be a significant factor in the future.
Over the past half-century, China’s geostrategic power has grown substantially, allowing it to play a more influential role in global affairs. While the country faces its own set of economic and environmental challenges, its approach to these issues has been more measured and pragmatic than that of many other nations. This combination of education, harmony, and rationality will likely continue to support China’s advancement in the coming year.
As the Year of the Snake unfolds, China’s potential for further growth and transformation appears strong. Its focus on innovation, peace, and sustainable development positions it well for the future, making 2025 a promising year for the country.
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