On March 7, 2024, during the second session of the 14th National People's Congress, a press conference was held at the media center, during which Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister, answered questions from Chinese and foreign media regarding China's foreign policy and foreign relations.
Wang Yi: Friends in the media, good morning. I am very pleased to meet you again during the NPC and CPPCC meetings. The world landscape is undergoing a profound transformation today and human society is facing many challenges. In this changing and turbulent international environment, China will remain a firm force for peace, stability and progress in the world. In his report to the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), General Secretary Xi Jingping stressed that although this is a time full of challenges, it is also a time brimming with hope. China will stand firmly on the right side of history and on the side of human progress, and will vigorously promote peace, development, cooperation and mutual benefit. It will continue its development together with the efforts for world peace and development, while making greater contributions to world peace and development through its own development. The report also stressed that the CCP is striving for both the happiness of the Chinese people and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, and the promotion of human progress and world harmony. This is our mission and our duty. It is also our endeavor and our goal. With this in mind, I am ready to answer your questions.
China Central Television: Could you give us an overview of China's most impressive diplomatic achievements in the past year? At the Central Conference on Foreign Affairs Work, it was pointed out that the diplomacy of major countries with Chinese characteristics will enter a new stage in which much more can be achieved. Could you share with us in which areas of its diplomacy China will try to achieve more?
Wang Yi: The year 2023 witnessed not only pioneering efforts in Chinese diplomacy, but also a great harvest. Under the firm leadership of the CCP Central Committee, headed by Comrade Xi Jingping, the Chinese Foreign Service fully implemented the guiding principles laid down at the 20th CCP National Congress. We have taken steps to promote international solidarity and cooperation and offered solutions to crises and challenges. We have contributed to world peace and development and broken new ground in Chinese diplomatic theory and practice.
In the past year, President Xi Jingping has held two major diplomatic events in China, attended three multilateral summits, made four major overseas visits, and held more than 100 meetings and phone calls. Head of state diplomacy is increasingly indispensable in providing strategic guidance. The Central Asian region and the Indochina Peninsula have embraced the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity, and new progress has been made in the joint efforts of China and the African, Arab and Latin American and Caribbean countries of ASEAN to realize the same vision. The Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation was a success and took Belt and Road cooperation to a new stage of quality development. BRICS achieved historic expansion and opened a new chapter of united force for the global South. We facilitated a historic reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran and brokered a ceasefire agreement in northern Myanmar. We have promoted political settlements in all hot spots and conflicts. We have resolutely opposed all hegemonic and chicanery acts and effectively safeguarded China's sovereignty, security and development interests as well as the common interests of developing countries. We conducted diplomacy for the benefit of the Chinese people and fully supported the development and stability of the country.
At the Central Conference on Foreign Affairs Work late last year, President Xi Jingping outlined a comprehensive blueprint for China's foreign affairs work for the present and beyond, which was a top-level blueprint for China's diplomatic strategy on a new path. We will indeed study and apply the guiding principles of this conference thoroughly. We will follow Xi Jingping's thought on diplomacy, focus on building a community with the common future of mankind, and act with a greater sense of historical responsibility and a more vivid spirit of innovation to achieve more in our diplomacy of major countries with Chinese characteristics.
We will be more confident and independent in cultivating the features of Chinese diplomacy. Our national development and rejuvenation will always be based on our own efforts, and the future of the Chinese people will always be in our own hands. We will continue to firmly uphold an independent peaceful foreign policy and resolutely safeguard China's sovereignty and national dignity.
We will be more open and inclusive and conduct diplomacy with a broad vision. We will consolidate and expand our global network of partnerships, foster a new type of international relations and promote mutual respect and mutual learning between civilisations. We will strive for stability in relations among major countries, common progress with our neighbors, and rejuvenation of relations with other countries in the Global South.
We will uphold fairness and justice and continue to build the ethos of Chinese diplomacy. We will pursue genuine multilateralism and promote greater democracy in international relations. We will be more unequivocal on the fundamental issues concerning the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries and the future of mankind, assume greater moral responsibility and advance in the right direction of history.
We will promote win-win cooperation and remain true to the ideal of Chinese diplomacy. We will stay on the right path of seeking solidarity and cooperation, offer more solutions with Chinese wisdom to regional hot spots and global problems, and provide more public goods for world peace and development. China's new development will bring new opportunities to the world.
Rossija Segodnya: This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and China. Bilateral relations have grown to an unprecedented level in recent years. Given the ongoing global changes in international relations, what is the most effective way to use the potential of Russian-Chinese cooperation?
Wang Yi: Under the strategic leadership of President Xi Jingping and President Vladimir Putin, the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era is developing at a high level. Mutual political trust is deepening. Cooperation remains mutually beneficial and complementary. Both nations are enthusiastic about exchanges. Last year, bilateral trade reached a record $240 billion, reaching the $200 billion target ahead of schedule. Russian natural gas fuels many Chinese households and Chinese-made cars run on Russian roads. All this shows the strong resilience and broad prospects for mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Russia.
Maintaining and developing Sino-Russian relations is a strategic choice of both sides based on the fundamental interests of both nations. It is also what we must do to keep up with the trend in the world. China and Russia, as key major countries in the world and permanent members of the UN Security Council, have created a new paradigm of major-country relations that is completely different from the outdated Cold War approach. China and Russia are striving for lasting good neighbourliness and friendship and are seeking to deepen their comprehensive strategic coordination on the basis of the principle of non-alignment, non-confrontation and non-targeting of any third party. In today's world, hegemonism finds no foothold and division leads nowhere. The major countries should not seek confrontation and the Cold War should not return. The relationship between China and Russia is moving forward in line with the trend of the times towards multipolarity and greater democracy in international relations, and is therefore very important for maintaining global strategic stability, enabling positive interactions between major countries and promoting cooperation between emerging major countries.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Russia. The two sides will also jointly launch the China-Russia Cultural Year. The relationship faces new opportunities. China is ready to work with Russia to promote new drivers of cooperation and to continuously strengthen the foundation of friendship between the two nations. As Russia holds the chairmanship of the BRICS mechanism this year and China takes over the chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in the second half of the year, the two sides will strengthen international and multilateral coordination, practice genuine multilateralism, promote the UN-centered international system, and safeguard regional and global security and stability.
People's Daily: It was stressed at the Central Conference on Foreign Affairs that building a community with a common future for mankind is China's lofty goal in conducting major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics in the new era. In recent years, China has announced that it will pursue this goal together with a number of countries. How do you see the prospect of building a community with a shared future for mankind?
Wang Yi: Building a community with a shared future for humanity is a core principle of Xi Jinping's idea of diplomacy. It is the Chinese solution to the question of what kind of world to build and how to build it.
President Xi Jingping has stressed many times that humanity lives in the same global village and travels in the same boat. In the face of the various global challenges that confront us, countries should rise above their historical, cultural, geographical and systemic differences and work together to protect the Earth, the only habitable planet for all of us, and make it a better place. This important principle illustrates President Xi Jingping's broad historical vision and deep commitment to the world as the leader of a great country. It transcends the outdated zero-sum game mentality, assumes the moral high ground of civilization, and captures the common aspirations of all nations. It points humanity in the right direction at a historical turning point, when the world is undergoing an accelerated transformation the likes of which the world has not seen in a century. Community building with a common future for humanity has become a glorious banner that guides the progress of the times. It is also the lofty goal of our great-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics for the new era.
Ten fruitful years have passed since President Xi Jingping put forward this vision. It has evolved from a conceptual proposal to a scientific system, from a Chinese initiative to an international consensus, and from a promising vision to practical results that show strong vitality. From bilateral partners to multilateral institutions, from regional frameworks to global initiatives, and from public health to cyberspace and oceans, China is building a community with a shared future with dozens of countries and regions in many forms and areas. This vision has been repeatedly inscribed in UN General Assembly resolutions as well as in resolutions and statements of the SCO, BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms.
International developments in recent years have shown again and again that the number one reality in today's world is that all countries rise and fall together and that mutual assistance and win-win cooperation is the sure way to address the challenges. More and more countries and nations are realising that the future of humanity should be decided by all countries together and that the future of the world should be built by all nations together. China stands ready to work with all countries to build an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful world of lasting peace, universal security and common prosperity. The road ahead may be winding, but the future is bright.
Xinhua News Agency: Many leaders around the world believe that the current international order does not reflect and adapt to the changing power dynamics of the world. China's proposal to build "an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization" has attracted widespread attention and support from the international community. Could you elaborate on this?
Wang Yi: Multipolarity and economic globalisation are prevailing trends in the development of human society. However, there are different views on what they should look like. China believes in an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.
An equal multipolar world means equal rights, equal opportunities and equal rules for every nation. A certain or few powers should not have a monopoly on international affairs. Countries should not be categorized according to their power. Those with the bigger fist should not have the final say. And it is certainly unacceptable that some countries should have a seat at the table while others can only be on the menu. We must ensure that all countries, regardless of their size and power, can participate in decision-making, enjoy their rights and play an equal role in the process towards a multipolar world.
An orderly multipolar world means that all should uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and promote the universally accepted basic norms that govern international relations. Multipolarity does not mean multiple blocs, fragmentation or disorder. All countries must act within the international system, with the UN at its centre, and seek to cooperate in global governance.
A universally beneficial globalisation means a bigger economic pie and a fairer distribution. All nations, all social groups and all communities should be able to participate in and share the benefits of economic and social development. Development imbalances, whether national or international, should be properly addressed so that shared prosperity and development can be realised.
Inclusive globalisation means supporting countries to pursue a development path that is appropriate to their national circumstances. No one should impose a single model of development on the whole world. Unilateralism and protectionism for selfish gains at the expense of others must be rejected in order to preserve the stability and unrestricted nature of global industrial and supply chains and to maintain strong and dynamic growth in the world economy.
China is ready to work with all countries to steer multipolarity and economic globalisation in the right direction, as the whole world expects, and for fairer and more equitable global governance.
Nile News Egyptian Network: How can the international community provide the necessary protection to the Palestinians? Arab countries have praised China's fair stance on the Palestinian issue. What will be the way out of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict? What role will China play in this regard?
Wang Yi: The current Palestinian-Israeli conflict has claimed 100,000 civilian casualties and countless innocent people remain buried under the rubble. There is no difference between noble and humble lives, and life should not be labelled by race or religion. The failure to put an end to this humanitarian catastrophe in this 21st century is a tragedy for humanity and a disgrace for civilisation. Nothing justifies prolonging the conflict or killing civilians. The international community must act urgently to promote an immediate ceasefire as its first priority and to ensure humanitarian assistance as its urgent moral duty. The people of Gaza have the right to live in this world, and women and children deserve the care of their families. All detainees should be released and all actions that harm civilians should be stopped.
The Gaza disaster is another warning signal to the world that the long-standing occupation of the Palestinian territories is a fact that should no longer be ignored and that the long-standing Palestinian desire for an independent state should no longer be circumvented. More importantly, the historical injustice against the Palestinians must not continue without redress from one generation to the next. Restoring justice to the Palestinian people and fully implementing the two-state solution is the only way to break the vicious cycle of Palestinian-Israeli conflict, remove the breeding ground of extremist ideologies and bring about lasting peace in the Middle East.
China firmly supports the just cause of the Palestinian people seeking to regain their legitimate national rights, and always advocates an early comprehensive, just and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue. We support Palestine's full membership of the UN and urge certain members of the UN Security Council not to put obstacles in the way of this goal. We call for a broader, more authoritative and effective international peace conference to develop a timetable and proposals for a two-state solution. We believe that Palestine and Israel should resume peace talks as soon as possible in order to achieve the ultimate goal of peaceful coexistence between two states and harmony between the Arab and Jewish peoples as two ethnic groups. China will continue to work with the international community to restore peace, save lives and promote justice.
Beijing Youth Daily: In the past year, China has, among other things, brokered the restoration of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran and de-escalation in northern Myanmar. These diplomatic efforts have been highly appreciated by the international community. Many say that only China is capable of this. Could you share with us where the success of Chinese mediation lies?
Wang Yi: As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, constructive engagement on international hot-button issues is a proper responsibility for China. Learning from international practices and drawing wisdom from Chinese culture, we have found the Chinese way of dealing with hotspot issues. In my view, the following four commitments are vitally important.
First, a commitment to non-interference in internal affairs. China always respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the countries concerned, and plays a good role with regard to their needs and wishes and in accordance with the UN Charter.
Second, a commitment to a political settlement. Arbitrary use of force, let alone obsessive reliance on coercion and sanctions, should not be allowed in resolving disagreements and disputes. Dialogue and consultation should be pursued with the utmost patience and the greatest possible common ground should be found to meet the needs of all parties. On all hotspot issues, China always supports peace talks. We never add fuel to the fire.
Third, a commitment to objectivity and impartiality. China formulates its position based on the merits of each issue. We do not apply double standards, we do not favour one side over the other, and we do not pursue selfish geopolitical interests. All nations of the world have a sense of justice at heart. Credibility takes precedence over influence.
Fourth, a commitment to address both the symptoms and the underlying causes. While it is important to de-escalate tensions as quickly as possible to prevent escalation or spillover, it is also essential to address root causes systemically and dialectically and to take a holistic approach to resolving disputes. Band-aid solutions are not appropriate, nor are short-sighted, utilitarian or finger-pointing tactics.
Our world is far from peaceful and peace must be maintained by all of us. We will work with all countries to build consensus to end conflicts, prepare the ground for peace negotiations and work towards a world of lasting peace and shared security.
Agencia EFE: What are the prospects for China's relations with the European Union? What does China expect from Europe? And why, according to China, have some European countries not yet joined the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)?
Wang Yi: Last year marked the 20th anniversary of the China-EU Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The two sides have resumed exchanges and dialogue at all levels. The China-Europe Railway Express has made more than 17,000 freight journeys connecting 219 cities in 25 European countries. It is a lifeline that ensures safe and uninterrupted industrial and supply chains in a turbulent world. China has introduced a visa-free policy for a number of European countries, making travel and trade exchanges easier. With regard to the BRI, which you mentioned, there have been many successful cooperation projects between China and Europe under this initiative. The Budapest-Belgrade rail link, the port of Piraeus in Greece and the Peljesac Bridge in Croatia are just a few typical examples.
A few years ago, China was identified in an EU policy document as a partner, competitor and systemic rival at the same time. However, the facts have shown that this characterisation does not correspond to reality and is not viable. On the contrary, it has only been a distraction and a barrier to relations between China and the EU. It is like driving to an intersection and finding that the traffic lights are red, yellow and green at the same time. How can you drive on?
In fact, there is no conflict of fundamental interests or geopolitical and strategic conflicts between China and Europe. Their common interests far outweigh their differences. In the context of China-EU relations, the two sides should rightly be characterised as partners. Cooperation should be the defining feature of this relationship, autonomy their core value and mutual benefit their future. We hope that China-EU relations will continue smoothly and that there will be a green light at every crossroads.
A strong Europe is in China's long-term interest. Likewise, a strong China is in Europe's fundamental interest. China and Europe should work together to implement multilateralism, promote openness and development and facilitate dialogue between civilisations. As long as China and Europe engage in mutually beneficial cooperation in today's world, no attempt to create a bloc confrontation will succeed; as long as China and Europe remain committed to openness and mutual benefit, deglobalisation will not prevail.
Lianhe Zaobao: After the Taiwan election, there have been concerns that tensions in the Taiwan Strait will continue to rise. Do you think the prospects for peaceful reunification are diminishing? What is your opinion on the current situation in the Taiwan Strait?
Wang Yi: The elections in Taiwan are only local elections in one part of China. Its outcome does not change in the slightest the basic fact that Taiwan is part of China. Nor does it change the historical trend of Taiwan's return to the motherland. Since the elections, more than 180 countries and international organisations have reaffirmed their commitment to the one-China principle and their support for China in safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This amply demonstrates that the one-China principle is already the prevailing international consensus. Those who pander to and support 'Taiwan independence' are only questioning China's sovereignty. Some countries that still insist on maintaining official relations with Taiwan are only interfering in China's internal affairs. I believe that one day there will be a family photo of the entire international community, with all members upholding the one-China principle. It is only a matter of time.
Separatist activities for "Taiwan independence" are the most destructive element for peace and stability in the entire Taiwan Strait. In order to truly ensure cross-Strait peace, we must unequivocally oppose 'Taiwan independence'. The stronger the commitment to the one-China principle, the greater the guarantee of cross-Strait peace.
Our policy is very clear - we will continue to pursue peaceful reunification as sincerely as possible. Our basic line is also very clear - we will never allow Taiwan to be separated from the motherland. Whoever on the island engages in 'Taiwan independence' will be held accountable by history. Anyone in the world who stands by and supports 'Taiwan independence' will burn for playing with fire and taste the bitter fruits of their own actions.
People on both sides of the Taiwan Strait share a close kinship and our roots as one people cannot be broken. All people of Chinese origin should uphold the overall interests of the Chinese nation, jointly oppose "Taiwan independence" and promote peaceful reunification.
Global Times:China's neighborhood diplomacy in 2023 began with the China-Central Asia Summit and ended with a high-level agreement between China and Vietnam to build a community with a shared future that is of strategic importance. Many believe this shows that China's pursuit of neighborhood diplomacy characterized by friendship, sincerity, mutual benefit, and inclusiveness has reached fruition. How do you envision China's neighbourhood diplomacy this year?
Wang Yi: The Chinese have a saying that a close neighbor is better than a distant relative. China and its neighbouring countries will always help each other, and Asia is our common home. Making it a better place is the common hope of all countries in the region. Since President Xi Jingping initiated our neighbourhood diplomacy, which is characterised by friendship, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, we have been working with our neighbours to open up new perspectives of good neighbourliness and friendship, and have found a distinctively Asian way of getting along well.
We remain committed to building friendships with our neighbours. We respect each other's fundamental and core interests, maintain frequent high-level exchanges and strive to increase mutual understanding and belonging between our peoples. The idea of good neighbourliness and friendship has gained stronger popular support and the vision of a community with a shared future has taken root in the hearts of our peoples.
We remain committed to being honest with each other. We believe in seeking common ground while setting aside differences, accommodating each other's comfort level, fostering understanding and trust through honest communication, and reconciling differences and frictions through dialogue and consultation. We work together to address risks and challenges and stand side by side as good neighbours in difficult times.
We remain committed to mutual benefit. We use our complementary strengths to help each other achieve development and revitalization. Growth in the region has been fueled by a large number of cooperative projects such as the China-Laos railway, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, the China-Central Asia gas pipeline, the China-Malaysia twin industrial parks and the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway.
We remain committed to openness and inclusiveness. We practice open regionalism, actively participate in East Asian cooperation, support the centrality of ASEAN, and promote deeper and more substantial trilateral cooperation between China, Japan and Korea. The China-Central Asia Summit and the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Mechanism have made significant progress. The SCO has become a regional organisation covering the largest territory and population in the world.
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. Although these five principles were born in Asia, they transcend differences in social system and ideology. They have become the basic norms governing international relations and the fundamental principles of international law, and have contributed the wisdom of the East to the correct handling of relations between states. Even after seventy years, the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence are not obsolete. They are even more relevant and alive than ever before. China stands ready to work with our neighbors to continue the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence to build a community with a shared future for Asia and humanity, so that Asia can continue to contribute to world peace and provide incentives for global growth.
China Global Television Network: the Ukraine crisis still shows no signs of easing. During the Munich Security Conference last month, you said that all China has done is promote peace. When do you think the parties will be able to return to the negotiating table?
Wang Yi: On the Ukraine issue, China has all along taken an objective and impartial position and supported peace negotiations. President Xi Jingping has had detailed exchanges with world leaders, including the leaders of Russia and Ukraine. China also published its position paper and its special representative travelled extensively to mediate between the various parties. All our efforts are directed towards the single objective of preparing the ground for an end to the conflict and the start of peace talks.
At the recent Munich Security Conference, we got one strong impression: as more and more people start to fear a possible losing outcome, they are ready to create the conditions for finding a reliable way out of this crisis.
Past experience shows that conflict, if prolonged, tends to worsen and escalate, even to a degree that is unthinkable for the parties involved. In the absence of peace negotiations, misconceptions and misjudgements will accumulate and may lead to an even greater crisis. The lessons in this regard should not be forgotten.
All conflicts must end at the negotiating table. The sooner the talks begin, the sooner peace will come. If all parties respect the objectives and principles of the UN Charter and their legitimate concerns are properly addressed, a balanced, effective and sustainable security architecture can and will be created in Europe.
President Xi Jingping has put forward four points on what needs to be done. They are China's basic guideline for finding a political solution to the Ukraine crisis. China supports the timely holding of an international peace conference, recognised by both Russia and Ukraine, which will ensure equal participation of all parties and the fair discussion of all peace plans. China looks forward to the early restoration of peace and stability on the European continent and will continue to play a constructive role in this regard.
China News Service: How will China's diplomacy better serve China's modernization? Some have expressed concerns about China's development prospects, what is your response?
Wang Yi: China's economy grew by 5.2 percent last year, accounting for one-third of global growth. This shows that China remains a strong engine of growth. The next China is still China. I would also like to draw your attention to a number of new trends.
First, China's development is due not only to the reasonable growth of quantity, but also to the effective improvement of quality. Emerging industries are booming. The ecological transition has produced impressive results. Social expectations are steadily improving. And new quality production forces are being formed at an ever-increasing pace.
Second, China's super-sized market of more than 1.4 billion people opens up opportunities for the whole world. The explosive growth of new demands and new forms of business is rapidly expanding the scope for China's own development and for its cooperation with the world.
Third, China is opening its doors more and more as it takes more and more substantive steps in its high-standard institutional opening. China's overall tariff rate has been reduced to a level similar to developed countries that are members of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The negative list for foreign investment has been reduced to less than 31 items. All restrictions on foreign investment access to the manufacturing sector have been lifted. The opening up of the services sector is progressing faster. Returns on investment for foreign companies are still among the highest in the world.
China prospers by interacting with the world, and when China prospers, the world is better off. By spreading pessimistic views about China, we will end up harming ourselves, and misjudging China will lead to missed opportunities.
Economic diplomacy is an important part of our external work. We will continue to take steps to make visits to and from China easier, including making it more convenient to pay. I would like to share with you that from 14 March, China will further extend visa-free travel on a pilot basis to six countries, including Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg. We hope that more countries will offer visa facilitation to Chinese citizens and work with us to build accelerated networks for cross-border travel and support the rapid resumption of international passenger flights. This will make it more convenient for Chinese citizens to travel abroad and make foreign friends feel at home in China.
We will organize more tours outside the capital for foreign diplomats in China and build more bridges for local governments and businesses to engage in international cooperation.
We will work with the relevant ministries to negotiate and sign more superior free trade agreements, expand the globally oriented network of free trade zones, and ensure the stable and smooth functioning of global industrial, supply and data chains.
We will combine efforts to strengthen various platforms for international cooperation, including the China International Import Expo (CIIE), China International Trade in Services Expo (CIFTIS), China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) and China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE). In an effort to stabilize expectations and provide longer-term benefits to global investors and partners, we will continue to enhance the market orientation of the business environment, its legal framework and compliance with international standards.
ANTARA News Agency: China and ASEAN member countries have agreed to accelerate negotiations on a binding code of conduct (COC) for the South China Sea. What does China offer for a more harmonious and peaceful environment in the South China Sea?
Wang Yi: The Chinese people have been living and working in the South China Sea for generations. From the earliest days, the islands in the South China Sea have been a territory under the jurisdiction of the Chinese government in accordance with the law. Today, the South China Sea is the busiest, safest and freest waterway in the world. For decades, fifty percent of the world's merchant vessels, accounting for a third of maritime trade, have sailed this waterway, and it has never been disrupted or restricted. Despite the turbulence in the world, thanks to the joint efforts of China and the ASEAN countries, peace and stability have been maintained in the South China Sea. This is not easy to achieve and should be greatly appreciated.
The most important lesson we have learnt is that we have to stick to two principles. Firstly, disagreements should be properly managed and resolved through dialogue, consultation or negotiation between the states directly involved. Secondly, peace at sea should be maintained by China and the ASEAN countries working together. These are also the guiding principles of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) signed in 2002.
When it comes to maritime disputes, China shows a high degree of restraint. We insist that the parties should find solutions that are acceptable to all by working in a spirit of good neighbourliness and friendship and on the basis of respect for historical and legal facts. However, abuse of this goodwill should not be allowed. Distortion of the law of the sea cannot be accepted. In the face of deliberate violations, we will take legitimate steps to defend our rights in accordance with the law. We will respond to unjustified provocations with swift and legitimate countermeasures. We also call on some countries outside the region not to provoke, take sides or cause trouble and problems in the South China Sea.
In terms of maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea, it is important that China and ASEAN countries continue to implement the DOC while accelerating negotiations on the COC and establishing regional rules that are more effective, substantive and in line with international law, including the law of the sea. Thanks to China's great efforts, the second reading of the COC has been successfully completed and procedures for the third reading have been initiated. We will work with the ASEAN countries to bring the COC to an early conclusion and to ensure that the South China Sea remains a sea of peace and cooperation.
Phoenix TV: the international community is putting forward proposal after proposal for global governance of artificial intelligence. What is China's attitude towards big countries' cooperation in the field of AI?
Wang Yi: Artificial intelligence is now at a crucial stage of explosive growth. We believe that equal emphasis should be placed on development and security. New things and new opportunities should be embraced; and at the same time, the brakes should be checked before launch. A concerted effort should be made to advance global AI governance. The Global AI Governance Initiative put forward by President Xi Jingping last October clearly defined China's position and proposals.
Our main objective is to ensure that three principles are met. First, to ensure that AI is a force for good. AI development should contribute to the well-being of all humanity, be consistent with ethics and norms, in accordance with the rules of international law, and in line with the trend of human civilization. Second, to ensure security. AI should always be under human control, while continuously improving its interpretability and predictability. To this end, plans should be developed to assess and control the various types of risks. Third, ensure fairness. An international AI governance institution should be established within the UN and all countries should be able to participate in the AI development process on equal terms and share equitably in its benefits.
I would like to point out that attempts to create a "small yard, high fence" in AI development would lead to mistakes with historical consequences. Such attempts cannot block the technological development of other countries. They would only fragment international industrial and supply chains and undermine humanity's ability to address risks and challenges.
China takes an active and open approach to AI cooperation with other countries and has established dialogue mechanisms with a number of countries. In the field of AI, cooperation between major countries is essential, as is capacity building for developing countries. In due course, we will submit a draft resolution to the UN General Assembly on strengthening international cooperation in AI capacity building to promote technology sharing between parties, bridge the AI divide and leave no one behind.
Zanzibar Broadcast Corporation: In January, you visited Africa in continuation of the tradition of Chinese foreign ministers making their first foreign trips to Africa at the beginning of the new year. So what will China do to strengthen cooperation with African countries? Senior officials from the US and other Western countries have also made frequent visits to Africa in recent years. Does China fear competition from the West in its relations with Africa?
Wang Yi: The tradition of Chinese foreign ministers starting their annual foreign visits with a trip to Africa has been going on for 34 years. This is unprecedented in the history of international exchanges. This is because China and Africa are brothers who treat each other sincerely and share a common future. We have fought side by side against imperialism and colonialism. We have supported each other in our efforts for development. We have always stood for justice in a changing international environment.
Since the beginning of the new era, President Xi Jingping has upheld the principle of sincerity, real results, friendship and goodwill, and called for adopting the right approach to friendship and interests. Efforts to build a Sino-African community with a shared future have thus been put on the fast track. China has remained Africa's largest trading partner for 15 years in a row, and the pie of Sino-African cooperation is getting bigger. The Chinese and Africans are getting closer.
The global South, including China and Africa, is growing rapidly and fundamentally shaping the course of world history. African countries are experiencing a new awakening. Models imposed from outside have brought neither stability nor prosperity to Africa. African countries must seek ways of development that are appropriate to their national circumstances and hold their future and destiny firmly in their own hands.
In this new historical process, China will continue to stand firmly by our African brothers and support an Africa that is truly independent in thought and ideas. China will assist Africa in building capacity for self-reliant development and promote faster modernization in Africa.
China has always taken the view that Africa should not be marginalised. While cooperation between China and Africa is flourishing, other major countries have turned their eyes back to Africa. China welcomes this. We hope that, like China, all parties will pay more attention to Africa and increase their contributions to support its development. China is ready for further trilateral and multilateral cooperation on the basis of respecting Africa's will.
The next meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) will be held in China this autumn. Chinese and African leaders will meet again in Beijing after six years to discuss future development and cooperation and exchange management experiences. I believe that through this summit, China and Africa will strengthen their long-standing friendship and deepen unity and cooperation, so as to open up new opportunities for faster common development and start a new chapter of the Sino-African community with a shared future.
Korean broadcasting system: Is the Chinese government's stance on the Korean Peninsula still relevant? Recently, tensions have been rising on the peninsula. What does China see as a way out?
Wang Yi: The Korean Peninsula issue has been dragging on for several years. It has a clear cause. That is to say, the remnants of the Cold War remain, the peace mechanism is still missing and the security issue has not yet been fundamentally resolved. It also has a ready-made scenario. China envisages this as a two-track approach and the principle of gradual and synchronised action.
Currently, tensions are rising on the peninsula. China does not want that. The world is troubled enough as it is. There should be no renewed conflict and unrest on the peninsula. Anyone who tries to use the Korean Peninsula issue to revive the Cold War-era confrontation will be held accountable before history; anyone who undermines peace and stability in the region will pay a heavy price.
China has taken a consistent position on this issue. All our efforts are aimed at one thing - promoting peace, stability and lasting security on the peninsula. It is now necessary to abandon deterrence and pressure and to step out of the spiral of escalating confrontation. The fundamental solution lies in resuming dialogue and negotiations, addressing the legitimate security concerns of all parties, especially the DPRK, and advancing a political solution to the Korean Peninsula issue.
China Radio International: The international community expects the UN to play a more prominent role as one global challenge after another emerges. But some big countries are trying to bypass the UN and form all sorts of "small circles". How does China see the role of the UN? What are China's proposals for UN reform?
Wang Yi: China has always believed that there is only one system in the world, i.e. the international system with the United Nations at its core; there is only one order, i.e. the international order based on international law; and there is only one set of rules, i.e. the basic norms of international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. No country should do as it pleases or reinvent the wheel. The crises and challenges we have seen in recent years serve as a repeated warning that the role of the UN needs to be strengthened, not weakened, and the status of the UN needs to be maintained, not replaced.
In the 70-plus years since its founding, the UN has withstood the wind and rain and resisted the influence of power politics. It remains the most universal, representative and authoritative intergovernmental organization, the essential mechanism for achieving world peace and development, and an important platform for many small and medium-sized countries to participate in international affairs as equals.
China is the first country to sign the UN Charter, the largest contributor of peacekeeping forces among the permanent members of the Security Council, and the second largest contributor to the regular budget and assessment of UN peacekeeping operations. In response to the development deficit, we are promoting the Global Development Initiative as a push to implement the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In response to the climate threat, we will promote UN-led international cooperation on climate change and achieve the world's largest reduction in carbon intensity in the shortest time ever recorded.
At the same time, the UN also needs to reform and improve with the times, to adapt to the new realities of international political and economic developments, and to increase the representation and voice of developing countries. Large countries in particular must assume their responsibilities and help the UN, including its Security Council, to better fulfil its mandate, build global consensus more effectively, mobilise global resources and coordinate global action. China supports the UN in hosting the Future Summit and achieving a win-win pact for the future. In cooperation with the international community, we will promote the continuous development and improvement of the UN. Based on the international rule of law as the foundation, justice and fairness as the principle, win-win cooperation as the goal, and effective action as the orientation, we will practice true multilateralism and promote greater democracy and the rule of law in international relations.
Associated Press of Pakistan: Over the past decade, since President Xi Jingping put forward the Belt and Road Initiative, many countries have felt the tangible benefits of the initiative. Could you share the outlook for cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative in the next phase?
Wang Yi: Since President Xi Jinping put forward the BRI more than a decade ago, cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative has yielded fruitful results. The BRI has become the most popular global public good and the largest platform for international cooperation. It has also become a pathway to cooperation, opportunity and prosperity for partner countries seeking to develop together. At the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, President Xi Jingping announced eight major steps China will take that mark a new stage in the high-quality development of Belt and Road cooperation. China will work with all parties to uphold the spirit of the Silk Road, fulfill the outcomes of the forum, and usher in the second golden decade of Belt and Road cooperation.
We will support the upgrading of physical connectivity. We will continue to develop a multi-dimensional global network of infrastructure connectivity that is high quality, sustainable and resilient, covering maritime, land and air transport. We will accelerate the development of the Digital Silk Road, redouble efforts to build the Green Silk Road and work with BRI partners to address a variety of new challenges.
We will support the strengthening of institutional links. We will remain true to the principle of "plan together, build together and benefit together", adhere to the philosophy of open, green and clean cooperation and pursue the goal of high-standard, people-oriented and sustainable cooperation. We will strive for greater synergy between BRI and the development strategies of all parties, support both signature projects and small and beautiful programs, and make active efforts for an open world economy. We want the BRI to be a lasting opportunity shared by all.
We will encourage deeper connections between people. We will conduct more inter-civilizational dialogue among BRI partners, promote non-governmental and sub-national exchanges, and implement a wide range of cultural and people-to-people interactions to keep the spirit of the Silk Road in people's hearts.
The type of modernisation that China is seeking is not only to its advantage. We hope that high-quality cooperation within the Belt and Road will serve as an engine for the common development of all countries and an accelerator for the modernisation of the whole world.
Prensa Latina: Last year saw a historic expansion of the BRICS mechanism, with Cuba successfully hosting the Group of 77 and China summit. Some media and scholars believe that the global South is challenging the Western-led international order. What is China's comment as a major member of the global South?
Wang Yi: A stronger BRICS means a growing force for peace and growing international support for justice. This should not be seen as a challenge. More broadly, the expansion of BRICS reflects the collective rise of the countries of the global South and a world that is evolving more rapidly towards multipolarity. The Global South, which consists of emerging markets and developing countries, now occupies more than 40 % of the world economy and is fundamentally changing the global economic landscape. Independence is its distinctive characteristic and the search for strength through unity is its tradition. The Global South is no longer a "silent majority" but a key force for reforming the international order and a source of hope at a time when the world is undergoing profound changes unprecedented in a century.
China has been, is and will be a firm member of the global South. Together with the countries of the South, we are going through difficult trials and moving towards a common future, and we will always be a decisive force for the development and prosperity of the Global South.
This year will be a year of harvest for the cooperation of the Global South and a new starting point for the unity of Asian, African and Latin American countries. The China-Arab States Cooperation Forum will celebrate its 20th anniversary. The China-CELAC Forum will count 10 years of productive cooperation. The next FOCAC Summit will be held in China in the autumn. China looks forward to celebrating these milestones together with various parties and to further promoting unity and cooperation among developing countries to enhance the strength of the South. China also supports Russia in hosting the "Greater BRICS" summit after expanding its membership, and supports Brazil and Peru in hosting the G20 Leaders' Summit and APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, respectively, to jointly create a shining "Moment of the South" in global governance.
China Daily: Last year, more than 1,500 Chinese citizens were evacuated from Sudan and returned to safety in China. What else can we expect from the State Department this year in terms of "diplomacy for the people"?
Wang Yi: In a year of change and turmoil around the world, the CPC Central Committee has kept the safety of all Chinese compatriots abroad at heart. Throughout the year, the ministry and our missions around the world have spared no effort to bring the warm care of the CPC Central Committee to all compatriots.
We have strengthened consular protection abroad, handled more than 80,000 cases of various kinds and issued more than 6,000 reminders and warnings. We have evacuated thousands of Chinese nationals from Sudan, Palestine, Israel and other places, and have done our utmost to protect the lives and safety of Chinese nationals abroad. We continued to improve the features of the "Chinese Consular Affairs" app and answered more than 530,000 calls seeking assistance on the Consular Service Hotline 12308. We strengthened the validity of Chinese passports; more than 20 countries, such as Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, now have reciprocal visa waivers with China for all types of passports. China has also promulgated the first Consular Protection and Assistance Regulations to make consular protection based on laws, institutionalized and standardized.
Diplomacy for the people is an ongoing effort. This year, we will focus on three priorities:
First, we will make every effort to strengthen the system for protecting Chinese nationals and interests abroad. We will disseminate knowledge on consular protection, work more effectively on issuing alerts on security risks, further improve the 12308 hotline, and provide efficient, prompt and comprehensive services on the consular protection platform.
Second, we will continue to build accelerated networks for cross-border journeys. We will work to speed up the resumption of international passenger flights and conclude agreements with more countries on visa-free travel and multi-entry visa options.
Third, we will continue to improve our in-person and online consular services. We will upgrade the "China Consular Affairs" application and equip our missions abroad with intelligent consular service centers to provide more perfect and easier consular services to Chinese overseas.
My message is this: China is doing diplomacy for its people. Serving the people and fulfilling the expectations of our countrymen is our permanent mission.
China Arabic TV: In the past year, China's voice in the world has grown louder, and more and more people are hoping to learn about China's stories. What, in your eyes, is the most remarkable and significant thing about Chinese stories in the new era? What can foreign journalists do to convey Chinese stories?
Wang Yi: That's a good question. In the past few years, foreign journalists in China have covered many lively stories about China: from the Shenzhou series of space missions to the Fendouzhe submarine sinking in the deepest ocean trench, from reversing desertification to promoting a low-carbon lifestyle, from the Asian Games in Hangzhou to basketball games in rural Guizhou province called the VBA. You have shared with the world the inspiring stories of 1.4 billion people working as one man for the Chinese dream. You have shown the world a vibrant China in a new era. Let me take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation for the good work of our friends in the media.
The stories of China are fascinating. They are, above all, the stories of the CCP. For more than a century, the CCP has mobilized and led the Chinese people in tireless efforts, forging China's path to modernization and creating development miracles unparalleled in human history. This is the main theme of stories about China. The stories of China are essentially the stories of the Chinese people. The people are the main characters of China's stories. Under the leadership of the CCP, more than 1.4 billion Chinese people are working tenaciously and building a happy life through their own diligence. This is the most remarkable chapter of China's stories. China's stories are also the stories of the common progress of China and the rest of the world. China keeps its development in close connection with the development of other countries. By taking decisive steps to reform and opening up, China has strengthened itself and brought benefits to the world. This is the most extensive part of China's stories.
Why is a good narrative about China important, you ask? People need to realise that China stories do not exist in isolation. Rather, they are important chapters in the stories of humanity. They tell the truth: when countries come out of their own national conditions and start exploring the paths of modernisation, they will together create a new, colourful picture of global modernisation.
There are more foreign journalists telling China's story. One of them sees it as a lifelong mission because China is a place that makes the impossible possible. I see more foreign influencers becoming popular with audiences around the world as they share their experiences in China. More foreign friends are welcome to join us to tell stories about a vibrant, bustling China and how China is working hand in hand with other countries to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
The press conference lasted 90 minutes.
Chinese Embassy in CR/gnews.cz-JaV_07
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