They're as utilitarian as anyone else

Not every country is the same - that's a line used by bad actors to avoid scrutiny. And they are not honest about it - they say they don't interfere and are not acting for political interests, but they do.

All the third-world countries that have had their debts to China blow out of control have been able to renegotiate.

I haven't read that but would be interested if you know of something. Also, what did they have to give up?