Xi Jinping sticks to his vision for China's rise even as growth slows

Even with growth faltering in China, Xi Jinping appears confident that he possesses the right road map to surpass Western rivals. China’s economy has slowed down, its population is shrinking, and the United States has a lead in artificial intelligence. Xi’s previous statement that China was on the rise while American power declined now seems premature. However, Xi remains determined, emphasizing his ambition for industrial growth driven by innovation. Critics argue that Xi’s centralizing tendencies have stifled business and innovation and needlessly strained relations with Western governments. Despite challenges, Chinese officials believe that time and momentum remain on China’s side.