Today in Focus Will China replace the US on the world stage?
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Feb 3, 2026 
Tanya Branigan, long-time China correspondent and author of Red Memory, explores shifting global ties with China. She discusses why middle powers are courting Beijing. She covers trade wins, human-rights tensions, technological pull and Beijing’s more assertive diplomacy. She examines how US unpredictability and China’s institutional ambitions are reshaping world order.
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Pragmatic Reset, Not a Warm Embrace
- Keir Starmer's trip was pragmatic and transactional rather than a full embrace of China.
- The visit secured modest trade wins while cautiously addressing human rights and security concerns.
From Golden Age To Cautious Necessity
- The 2014 'golden age' was driven by wishful thinking and cosy symbolism.
- Tanya Branigan says today's approach is more cautious, security-aware and necessity-driven.
Canada's Diplomatic Shock And Patch-Up
- Canada had relations collapse after the Meng Wanzhou arrest and the detention of two Canadians.
- Mark Carney's outreach to China shows middle powers are mending ties despite clear caution.
