China's Economic Chill Winds Down Diplomatic Fireworks As Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi wrapped up his visit to South Korea, it was clear that Beijing is trying to revive its economic ties with Seoul amidst a broader chill in global trade.
Beneath the diplomatic overture lies a more complex reality: domestic politics are driving China's foreign policy. The timing of Wang's trip coincided with an unexpected downturn in China's economic fortunes.
Growth rates have slowed, and investors are increasingly anxious about the implications for China's massive industrial sector.