Experts analyse China’s strategic ambitions and regional contestation
The Global Conference on New Sinology 2026 examines China's pursuit of self-reliance, military modernisation, and its impact on India and the world.
The fourth edition of the Global Conference on New Sinology (GCNS) 2026 recently concluded in New Delhi, providing a comprehensive platform for experts to dissect the shifting landscape of Chinese power. Organised by the Organisation for Research on China and Asia (ORCA), the event delved into China’s strategic ambitions and regional contestation, focusing on how Beijing is navigating an era of global uncertainty through a drive for self-reliance and regeneration.
The Concept of Zìlì Gēngshēng
The central theme of this year's conference was “Zìlì Gēngshēng in an Era of ‘Great Changes Unseen’”. This concept refers to China's intense focus on achieving national self-reliance and regenerating its capacity through internal efforts. ORCA Director Eerishika Pankaj highlighted a critical paradox during her opening remarks: while Beijing is pushing for greater independence, it remains deeply embedded in global trade, technology, and complex cross-border networks.
Discussions explored how this pursuit of autonomy manifests in several key sectors:
- Scientific Innovation: The drive for technological sovereignty to reduce dependence on external powers.
- Artificial Intelligence: Beijing's aggressive pursuit of advanced AI capabilities.
- Social Governance: How the state manages its domestic population and internal stability.
- Defence: The rapid pace of military modernisation and its future implications.
India-China Relations and Regional Security
A significant portion of the conference was dedicated to the complex relationship between New Delhi and Beijing. Expert dialogues tackled the multifaceted nature of the rivalry, including:
- Persistent border tensions and strategic competition.
- Economic friction and the struggle for regional influence.
- The difficult prospects for coexistence between the two Asian giants.
Beyond bilateral ties, scholars examined emerging areas of regional contestation in South Asia. The conference also touched upon environmental security, following a preliminary roundtable on the critical water risks and environmental challenges facing the Himalayan region.
Economic Shifts and Future Governance
As China prepares for the 21st Party Congress in 2027, the conference examined the Communist Party of China’s approach to long-term governance, leadership continuity, and institutional adaptation. Experts also looked ahead to China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, specifically focusing on the role of “New Quality Productive Forces” and the integration of civil and military sectors.
Despite these ambitions, the sessions did not shy away from the hurdles Beijing faces. Discussions highlighted significant economic headwinds and the inherent tensions between China's strategic interests and its long-standing principle of non-interference in international affairs. Through closed-door sessions, participants also addressed "strategic blind spots" that may hinder a full understanding of China's evolving trajectory.