China on Friday presented itself as a reliable global power in the midst of geopolitical turmoil and Washington's withdrawal from international institutions, part of a clear appeal to Europe and Global South countries.

“If every country emphasises its own national priorities and believes only in strength and status, the world will regress to the law of the jungle, small and weak countries will bear the brunt," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a briefing on the sidelines of China's annual parliamentary meeting, in a veiled reference to Washington's actions.

Within the first two months of taking office, U.S. President Donald Trump has withdrawn the U.S. from several multilateral organisations and climate agreements, suspended most foreign aid, and voted against a United Nations resolution condemning Russia for the Ukraine invasion.

Will Trump's actions force Asian allies to embrace China?

"Major powers should assume international obligations and fulfil their responsibilities as major powers. They should not be profit-driven, and they should not bully the weak," Wang added.

Analysts say that Beijing wishes to exploit the growing transatlantic rift to bolster its ties with European countries, which have been strained over Ukraine and trade tensions.

(Production: Wang Shubing, Josh D. Arslan, Nicoco Chan)