On January 9th in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi outlined China’s diplomatic agenda for 2024, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to confidence, self-reliance, and responsible global leadership. Wang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, shared these insights during a symposium on the international landscape and China’s foreign relations in 2023.
Wang expressed China’s determination to leverage head-of-state diplomacy for strategic guidance, focusing on the success of key events such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, Boao Forum for Asia, China International Import Expo, and the Forum on Global Action for Shared Development. Safeguarding sovereignty, security, and developmental interests, China aims to create a conducive external environment for its new development pattern and high-quality development. Additionally, China pledges to uphold its responsibilities on crucial issues affecting developing countries and the global trajectory.
Maintaining a commitment to openness and inclusiveness, Wang emphasized the strengthening and expansion of global partnerships. Specifically, he highlighted the implementation of agreements with the United States and deepening collaboration with Russia. Furthermore, China intends to enhance exchanges and strategic communication with the European Union, foster relationships with neighbors, collaborate with developing countries and BRICS nations, and contribute to shaping a new paradigm of international relations.
Wang underscored China’s dedication to the Global Civilization Initiative, emphasizing the promotion of common human values, cultural exchanges, and mutual understanding among nations. Upholding principles of fairness and justice, China advocates for an equal and orderly multi-polar world, genuine multilateralism, democracy in international relations, and the equality of all nations.
Calling for collective commitment to the UN Charter, Wang urged nations to uphold basic norms in international relations and actively engage in global governance reform. China commits to implementing the Global Security Initiative, participating constructively in resolving global and regional conflicts, and contributing public goods for global peace and development.
China remains steadfast in pursuing win-win cooperation, advocating inclusive economic globalization, and opposing unilateralism, protectionism, and anti-globalization measures. The country aims to promote trade and investment liberalization, address structural challenges hindering global economic development, and maintain the stability of global industrial and supply chains.
In addition, Wang highlighted China’s dedication to the Global Development Initiative, emphasizing increased cooperation to enhance the independent development capacity of developing countries and foster a more open, inclusive, and balanced globalization. Finally, he underscored the continued implementation of outcomes from the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, emphasizing upgraded cooperation quality and expanded collaboration areas, presenting new opportunities for global development through China’s evolving initiatives.