I'm somewhat confused by your statement.
In the long-run, we could see China grow to become twice the size of the USA in economic terms by 2030-2035.
At that point, would China make a decision to significantly outspend the US military, and change the military balance?
I don't think there is any issue with saying this publicly now, because relations with the US are almost completely broken and the USA is actively trying to contain China.
So best to broadcast to everyone that you really want to stay neutral and not follow the US, as this is a losing proposition.
Plus there isn't anything the USA can do to change China's trajectory, as future Chinese development is now dependent on her own decisions.
the US economy has hollowed and it has become a massive parasite, it does not hold the material advantage to start a war. all the agressive actions taken against China are certainly based on the calculation that the US holds the advantage and China will put up to borrow time. my point is if confrontation is inevitable, then fight early may not be a bad thing.