Learn Lessons from History on the Rise of China

China's commemoration of the end of the Second World War illustrated the central role that history and symbolism now play in great-power competition, with Beijing using recognition and prestige as tools of influence. But beneath this spectacle, China's rise is limited by slowing growth and demographic challenges, making its trajectory less of a simple power swap with the United States than many assume. Tensions between Washington and Beijing are exacerbated by political choices, and need not be inevitable. For regional states, strengthening frameworks such as RCEP, CPTPP and ASEAN processes offers the best insurance to preserve stability and prevent the region’s future being dictated solely by great-power influence and rivalry.