China Builds
China Builds: The world is witnessing two different models of global power. One relies on wars, military force, sanctions, blockades, occupations, targeted killings, and regime-change operations. The other focuses on building ports, roads, railways, power plants, industrial zones, trade routes, and development projects. Many people associate the first model with the United States and Israel. They increasingly link the second model with China.
Legacy of War
History shows that the United States has fought many wars. Some wars were unavoidable during major global conflicts. However, others were wars of choice. These conflicts killed soldiers and civilians. They also destroyed homes, schools, hospitals, universities, factories, bridges, roads, water systems, and national economies. Millions of people fled their homes because of these wars. Their migration created social, political, and economic challenges in many countries. Many people see Israel as following a similar approach in the Middle East.
China’s Approach
China has presented a different approach. After the destruction in Iran and Lebanon, Beijing expressed sympathy. It also offered to help rebuild damaged areas. China has not announced the exact amount of financial support. Even so, its message was clear. While others carried out military attacks, China offered reconstruction and development. It focused on restoring infrastructure and improving people’s lives.
Global Strategy
This policy reflects China’s broader global strategy. Through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has invested in ports, roads, railways, power plants, and other development projects. In 2025, BRI engagement reportedly reached about $213.5 billion through hundreds of agreements. During the past decade, trade between China and BRI partner countries reached nearly $19.1 trillion. Today, these countries receive about half of China’s exports and provide more than half of its imports.
Pakistan’s Example
Pakistan is one of the biggest examples of this strategy through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The country has added thousands of megawatts of electricity generation capacity. These projects helped reduce energy shortages. China also supported road construction, transport networks, and the development of Gwadar Port.
Building Influence
China expands its influence through investment and development. It builds long-term assets instead of destroying them. Roads improve transport. Power plants supply electricity. Ports create jobs. Railways connect markets. Industrial zones attract investment. Rebuilt bridges restore daily life. People may support or criticize China’s policies. However, its method of gaining influence differs from using bombs and blockades.
Key Lesson
The lesson for developing countries is simple. Military power can destroy a country. It cannot easily win the support of its people. Fear may silence people for a short time. Respect grows through development and opportunity. Countries earn trust when they help people rebuild, work, trade, travel, and prosper. The United States and Israel may win military battles with advanced weapons. China is expanding its influence through investment, infrastructure, and reconstruction. History will remember those who launched missiles. It will also remember those who rebuilt bridges.
Published in Dawn, 14th July 2026
