BEIJING, Jan. 9 – The Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, outlined China’s diplomatic agenda for 2024 in a recent symposium on global affairs and China’s international relations held in 2023. Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized China’s commitment to being a responsible major country. During the symposium, Wang Yi highlighted several key diplomatic strategies for the upcoming year. These include leveraging state-level diplomacy for strategic leadership, ensuring the success of several international forums such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, the Boao Forum for Asia, the China International Import Expo, and the Forum on Global Action for Shared Development.
Wang underscored China’s dedication to protecting its sovereignty, security, and development interests. This includes fostering an external environment conducive to a new development pattern and high-quality growth. China intends to support developing countries in matters of unity, cooperation, and legitimate rights, while also focusing on issues concerning humanity’s future and world development directions. The minister also stressed China’s commitment to openness and inclusiveness, aiming to strengthen and broaden its global partnerships. Among specific plans, Wang mentioned implementing agreements made between China and the United States in San Francisco, deepening mutual trust and cooperation with Russia, and fostering relations with the European Union for stable and sustained growth.
China also plans to enhance ties with neighboring countries, other developing nations, and BRICS countries, promoting a new type of international relations. Additionally, Wang Yi spoke about China’s efforts in the Global Civilization Initiative, emphasizing the promotion of common human values and encouraging cultural exchanges and mutual learning. He also highlighted China’s role in advocating for a fair and orderly multi-polar world, practicing true multilateralism, and promoting democracy in international relations. Wang called for global cooperation in upholding the UN Charter’s purposes and principles and participating in the reform and construction of the global governance system.
China’s commitment to the Global Security Initiative includes active participation in resolving global and regional conflicts, such as the Palestinian-Israeli issue and the Ukraine crisis, and contributing to global peace and development. Regarding economic globalization, Wang affirmed China’s stance against unilateralism, protectionism, and anti-globalization. The country aims to support trade and investment liberalization, address structural economic issues, and maintain the stability of global industrial and supply chains. Finally, Wang mentioned China’s focus on the Global Development Initiative, seeking to boost global development cooperation and support for developing countries. China also plans to continue its efforts under the Belt and Road Initiative, enhancing the quality and scope of cooperation and providing new opportunities for global development through China’s growth.