More than 170 years after the Opium War,China is returning to a more central role in international relations.The major global emergencies in 2014 indicate an historical course alteration is happening now,and China's strategic choices will determine much of the final destination of the change.The interim period poses challenges to China's national security and greater uncertainty in international systems.China's rise,coupled with internal problems brought about by social transition and relatively insufficient strategic means,will make it more difficult for China to secure its interests.Provided China succeeds in this period of insecurity,the overall environment for the country will incrementally improve.Provided several factors are properly balanced,a period of relative "stability" will ensue as the negative effects brought about by China's rise disappear.