China has taken a historically nonpartisan approach to international diplomacy, but recently its government has taken a dramatic turn towards recasting China as a global peacemaker.
Last week, Beijing was influential in brokering peace between Saudi Arabia and Iran, which has the world doing metaphorical double-takes.
The achievement, which could well transform the Middle East, puts China into a new league diplomatically, and it has been seen by some as a significant accomplishment.
In recent weeks, China's diplomatic efforts have been notable, with a 12-point peace plan for Ukraine, reports of President Xi potentially visiting Moscow, and the brokering of peace between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
While China's engagement in the Middle East is minimal compared to that of the United States, it has demonstrated that it is becoming an increasingly significant actor in global affairs.
The accomplishment in brokering peace between Saudi Arabia and Iran has been seen as a significant diplomatic coup that could transform the Middle East.
Observers believe that Beijing played an important role in the agreement, thereby allowing Iran and Saudi to focus on domestic affairs and reduce tensions with a major rival.
Some experts believe that this peace deal allows for greater Chinese influence in the region, providing Beijing with opportunities to showcase itself as a global troubleshooter.
Others believe that this marks a significant shift in China's traditional neutral position in global affairs, and suggests that it is now exerting its diplomatic muscle on a global stage.