Xi's point is - democracy isn't necessary for success. XiJinPing's thought is literally based on the idea that the future is a huge idealogical battle between socialism (socialism with chinese characteristics) and capitalism (corporatism). personal freedoms be damned till china gains it's previous position in the world. he doesn't want China to end up like the soviet union. once you read his manifesto you'll see the chinese singular goal.

by the time, the west decides to disengage with china. china would be self sufficient and be able to engage with other countries.