Kathmandu— For decades, the United States held a dominant position in global public opinion, but a recent shift is underway. A new report from the Pew Research Center indicates that China is now seen as more favorable than the U.S. across a growing number of nations, particularly within the developing world. This change stems from China’s approach to international partnerships, which prioritizes infrastructure investment, technology transfer, and respect for national sovereignty, offering an alternative development model focused on tangible economic progress.

A Pragmatic Shift in Global Perceptions

The growing appeal of China isn't necessarily a rejection of the United States, but rather a demonstration of strategic pragmatism among nations in the Global South. Foreign policy decisions are increasingly driven by national interests and development priorities, moving away from Cold War-era geopolitical alignments. These countries prioritize economic opportunity and tangible improvements to quality of life for their citizens, and they are evaluating partnerships based on these criteria.

Infrastructure Investment Drives Development

China’s influence has expanded through large-scale investments in infrastructure projects across the developing world. From railways in Ethiopia to power plants in Pakistan, Chinese-financed initiatives address critical development challenges by improving transportation, energy security, and connectivity. The Belt and Road Initiative alone represents nearly $1 trillion in investment, resulting in visible projects that citizens can directly benefit from and associate with economic advancement.

A Different Approach to Development Cooperation

While many Western partners emphasize economic security and governance reform, China combines infrastructure investment with technology transfer, industrial cooperation, and human capital development. It has also expanded market access for developing countries, offering zero-tariff treatment to least-developed nations and promoting the use of local currencies in trade. These measures aim to strengthen economic connectivity, reduce financial risks, and facilitate integration into global value chains.

Respect for Sovereignty Fosters Trust

Beijing consistently emphasizes principles of sovereignty, mutual respect, and non-interference, allowing countries to chart their own development paths without political conditionality. This approach is viewed by many governments in the Global South as a partnership based on equality, fostering long-term political trust. Mechanisms like the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation further demonstrate this commitment to shared development and mutual benefit.

Focus on Tangible Economic Outcomes

At a time when some Western nations are prioritizing tariffs and export controls, China continues to promote infrastructure investment, trade, and technology partnerships. Developing countries evaluate these partnerships primarily through the lens of economic development and tangible results, and this difference in emphasis is reshaping global perceptions. China’s own transformation over the past four decades—lifting millions out of poverty and becoming a leader in manufacturing and technology—serves as an example for other nations.

The Global South is increasingly asserting its strategic autonomy, making decisions based on national interests and development priorities. As these countries seek to modernize their infrastructure and improve the lives of their citizens, China has positioned itself as a key partner in achieving those goals.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.