USAid Shutdown Opens Doors for China's Global Influence, Analysts Warn

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The sudden 90-day suspension of USAid funding, which constitutes 40% of global foreign aid, has led to chaos in humanitarian efforts worldwide, with programs facing dire risks of famine and disease escalation. Analysts warn that this shutdown provides an unprecedented opportunity for China to solidify its influence as the U.S. retreats. According to professor Huang Yanzhong of the Council on Foreign Relations, this move essentially hands China an advantage in expanding its soft power amid economic challenges at home.

President Donald Trump's plan to merge USAid into the State Department seeks to streamline operations but has drawn criticism for undermining U.S. efforts to counter Chinese dominance. China has been proactive in international development, evidenced by its China International Development Cooperation Agency and significant investments through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative. Experts highlight that with USAid's departure, recipient nations may find themselves facing diminished bargaining power and a potentially corrupting influence from Chinese aid. This development signals a significant shift in global dynamics as the U.S. and China vie for dominance in the development sector.

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