It's a question many of us ponder, especially when the world feels like it's spinning faster than usual: where are we headed? For China, and indeed for the global community, the answer is being actively shaped on the diplomatic front. Recently, at a press conference held during the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress, China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, offered a candid look at the nation's foreign policy and its place in the international arena.
Stepping onto the stage on March 8th, a day marked globally for International Women's Day, Minister Wang Yi extended warm greetings before diving into the complexities of our current global landscape. He painted a picture of a world in rapid transformation, marked by unprecedented changes, a blend of progress and turbulence, and the persistent shadow of conflicts. Simultaneously, he highlighted China's own trajectory – a nation forging ahead with its development, its revitalization an unstoppable force, and its international influence steadily growing.
Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, guided by the principles of Xi Jinping's Thought on Diplomacy, China's foreign policy is firmly rooted in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and development interests. It's a stance that champions international law, fairness, and justice, while unequivocally rejecting unilateralism, hegemony, and intimidation. As Minister Wang Yi put it, China is committed to staying on the "right side of history," fulfilling its international obligations with diligence.
He expressed a strong belief in humanity's future, positioning China as a significant force for peace, stability, and justice. The aspiration is to collaborate with like-minded nations to build a shared future for mankind, ushering in new eras of peace, development, and mutually beneficial cooperation.
When asked about the remarkable achievements of China's head-of-state diplomacy in the past year, Minister Wang Yi emphasized its role as an anchor. Despite turbulent international winds, President Xi Jinping's engagements have been pivotal, creating significant historical moments. These included strategic dialogues with global leaders, fostering new paradigms for major country interactions, and journeys to Southeast Asia, Russia, Central Asia, and the Republic of Korea, all aimed at strengthening good-neighborly relations.
Presiding over the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit and the China-CELAC Forum, China has also been instrumental in galvanizing solidarity within the Global South. Participation in commemorations of historical victories sent a clear message in defense of peace and justice. The Minister noted that these diplomatic efforts have fostered greater understanding, closeness, and confidence in China internationally, solidifying its position as an indispensable pillar in a tumultuous world.
Crucially, through various initiatives and concepts, President Xi Jinping has demonstrated exceptional strategic vision, charting a course for a world undergoing profound, unprecedented changes. Looking ahead, China remains committed to this path, ready to welcome global partners and continue contributing to a more stable and prosperous international order.
