China pitches itself as a reliable partner as Trump alienates US allies

Chinese President Xi Jinping has been hosting a series of high-level visits from US allies since 2026, as part of an effort to re-establish China as a reliable business and trading partner. The visitors include South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, Irish leader Micheal Martin, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who arrived in Beijing on January 28, 2026. These nations have been affected by the Trump administration's "reciprocal" trade tariffs and additional duties imposed on key exports. China is showcasing its support for multilateralism and free trade, as emphasized by Vice Premier Li Hefeng at the World Economic Forum's annual summit in Davos, Switzerland. The visits come after US President Donald Trump's comments that the US had become "the hottest country" due to surging investment and tariff revenues.

During a meeting with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo in Beijing on Tuesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that major global powers must lead by example given the current "risks and challenges" facing the world. Xi emphasized the importance of promoting equality, cooperation, and the rule of law. He characterized China and Europe as partners rather than rivals, highlighting the potential for cooperation. Orpo's visit marks the second visit from a European Union leader to China in recent weeks, following the Irish Prime Minister's trip in early January, and precedes a planned visit from the German Chancellor next month. Xi's statement comes amid increasing global tensions and divisions within transatlantic alliances.

During Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo's four-day visit to China, President Xi Jinping signaled a desire for deeper ties between the two countries. Meeting in Beijing on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, Xi welcomed Finnish businesses to expand within China's market. He expressed China's willingness to enhance mutual trust, strengthen communication, and deepen economic cooperation with Finland, particularly in areas like energy transition, agriculture, and forestry. Orpo also met with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, who urged Finland to advocate for caution regarding restrictive trade measures within the EU and to oppose protectionism. A business cooperation deal between the two countries was also announced. Orpo's visit included a delegation of executives from over 20 Finnish companies.

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo is undertaking a four-day visit to China, starting Sunday, with a large business delegation. The trip aims to strengthen ties with Beijing amidst pressure from US policies and is part of China's strategy to foster relationships with individual EU members. Cooperation is expected in areas like green technology and climate projects. Orpo's visit follows recent trips by the Irish and Canadian Prime Ministers, signaling China's efforts to engage with European and NATO nations. Geopolitics and security concerns are expected to limit any major breakthroughs during the visit.