Breakdown of Key Outcomes from Li Qiang's Africa Visit & Wang Yi's Diplomacy in Central Asia
In this edition, I am covering Li Qiang’s engagements in Zambia and South Africa and at the G20. I’ll also be covering Wang Yi’s interview following his visit to Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Wang has some really harsh words for the Japanese leadership on Taiwan.
First, let’s cover Li’s meeting with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on November 20th.
“Li said that China and Zambia are good brothers, good friends and good partners. Last year, the two countries celebrated the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties, and President Xi met with President Hichilema during the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), drawing a new blueprint for the deepening and development of bilateral relations. China is ready to work with Zambia to further consolidate mutual political trust, firmly support each other regarding their respective core interests and major concerns, continuously enrich the substance of the China-Zambia comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, join hands to advance modernization, and build an even closer China-Zambia community with a shared future so as to deliver more benefits to the two peoples.
Li Qiang pointed out that the Chinese side is willing to take the opportunity of the zero-tariff measures that are being with Zambia implemented to expand the scale of bilateral trade, to tap the potential for industrial cooperation in mining, new-energy vehicles, artificial intelligence and other sectors, to strengthen cooperation in livelihood areas such as medical and health care, agriculture, and human-resources development, and to enhance the sense of gain among the people regarding China–Zambia cooperation. 李强指出，中方愿同赞方以零关税举措在赞落地为契机，扩大双边贸易规模，发掘矿业、新能源汽车、人工智能等产业合作潜力，加强医疗卫生、农业、人力资源开发等民生领域合作，提升民众对中赞合作的获得感.
Both sides should take the 2026 ‘China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges’ as an opportunity to strengthen friendly exchanges at all levels, deepen exchanges and cooperation in culture, education, tourism, and other fields, and consolidate the public opinion foundation for bilateral cooperation. China is willing to strengthen cooperation with Zambia in judicial, policing, and law enforcement matters, and enhance security guarantees for bilateral cooperation. The activation of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway is a shared aspiration of the people of China, Tanzania, and Zambia. The three parties should jointly build this high-quality landmark BRI project, strengthen policy coordination, and jointly carry out subsequent comprehensive development to drive better development for countries and regions along the route. Currently, unilateralism and protectionism are intensifying, and are seriously impacting the international system and the world economy. China and Zambia should strengthen multilateral coordination and cooperation, and work with the vast number of countries in the Global South to safeguard international economic and trade order and fairness and justice, and defend common interests. 双方要以2026年“中非人文交流年”为契机，密切各层级友好往来，深化文化、教育、旅游等交流合作，打牢两国合作的民意基础。中方愿同赞方加强司法、警务、执法等合作，加强对两国合作的安全保障。坦赞铁路激活是中、坦、赞三国人民的共同心愿，三方要共同打造好这一高质量共建“一带一路”标志性项目，加强政策协调，共同做好后续综合开发，带动沿线国家及地区实现更好发展。当前，单边主义、保护主义行为愈演愈烈，严重冲击国际体系和世界经济。中赞应当加强多边协调配合，同广大全球南方国家一道，维护国际经贸秩序和公平正义，捍卫共同利益.
President Hichilema reportedly said that:
“Zambia firmly adheres to the one-China principle and firmly supports the just cause of the Chinese people in opposing ‘Taiwan independence’ separatism and striving for national reunification. Zambia is willing to continue its traditional friendship with China, maintain close high-level exchanges, expand cooperation in trade, investment, mining, agriculture, infrastructure construction, and cultural exchanges, do a good job in the follow-up work of activating the Tanzania-Zambia Railway, enhance the economic development efficiency along the railway line, and promote the building of a Zambia-China community with a shared future…Zambia highly appreciates the four global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping and is willing to strengthen multilateral cooperation with China to jointly safeguard multilateralism and free trade.” 赞方坚定恪守一个中国原则，坚定支持中国人民反对“台独”分裂、争取完成国家统一的正义事业。赞方愿同中方赓续传统友谊，密切高层往来，拓展贸易、投资、矿产、农业、基础设施建设、人文等领域合作，做好坦赞铁路激活后续工作，提升铁路沿线经济发展效能，推动构建赞中命运共同体。赞方愿同中方继续深化在中非合作论坛框架内合作，积极落实北京峰会成果。赞方高度赞赏习近平主席提出的四大全球倡议，愿同中方加强多边协作，共同维护多边主义和自由贸易.
While in Lusaka, Li attended the ground-breaking ceremony of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway revitalization project with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and Tanzanian Vice President Emmanuel Nchimbi. At the event, he said:
“Li said that in September 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan and President Hichilema jointly witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the revitalization project of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway in Beijing. Over the past year, relevant departments and enterprises of the three countries have worked in unity and taken concrete steps to make important progress, paving the way for the formal commencement of the project, Li noted. The railway serves as a bond that binds the peoples of China, Tanzania and Zambia closely together, he said, hailing the TAZARA spirit as precious legacy forged through dedication and hard work -- one that should be cherished and safeguarded. Today, China-Africa cooperation has embarked on a new journey toward the shared dream of modernization, Li said, describing the railway as a landmark project of China-Africa cooperation. China stands ready to work with Zambia and Tanzania to ensure that this railway, brimming with hope, shines with renewed splendor in the new era, and injects greater vitality into the development of Tanzania and Zambia, and even the entire Africa, he said. Noting that the three governments will provide necessary support for the railway’s revitalization, Li urged the three sides to adhere to high-quality and high-standard construction, build the project into a high-quality, efficient, safe and reliable landmark project, and set an example for high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.
“China will also help implement more ‘small and beautiful’ projects in areas such as healthcare, poverty alleviation and agricultural development along the line to better improve people’s livelihoods, he added. He called on the three countries to take the railway’s revitalization as an opportunity to advance ‘hard connectivity’ of infrastructure such as railways, highways and ports, and strengthen ‘soft connectivity’ in fields including customs, commodity inspection and taxation. Li said China is willing to continuously enhance trade and investment facilitation with Zambia and Tanzania, promote the integration and alignment of markets and industries among the three countries, as well as between China and Africa, to pool greater synergy for development. Looking ahead, China-Africa cooperation enjoys broad prospects, Li noted. China is ready to work with Zambia, Tanzania and other African countries to further carry forward the TAZARA spirit, implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and deepen and solidify the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era, the premier said.”
A joint statement was subsequently issued. The document describes this railway project as:
A railway to freedom: It says that the “represents the spirit and broader aspiration of China, Tanzania and Zambia for independence, sovereignty and economic prosperity. It remains a significant symbol of friendship and cooperation between the peoples of Tanzania, Zambia and China. Facing transformation unseen in a century, the three parties will carry forward the TAZARA spirit, uphold the principle of mutual respect, equal consultations, and joint contribution for shared benefit, and work together to build the Prosperity Belt for the modernization of the three countries and the wider region.”
A railway of development: “Efforts will be made to explore the integration of infrastructure, and establish intermodal transportation corridors that would facilitate intra-Africa trade. The three parties support the implementation of China’s zero-tariff measures for 100 percent tariff lines for African countries having diplomatic relations with China, encourage localized production and processing to expand export of high-quality products to China and other markets, and will strive to enhance cooperation in the investment sector. The three parties will, subject to separate arrangements, promote the development of existing industrial parks along and around the Railway, and plan and build special economic zones, so as to achieve collaborative development and boost the realization of industrialization and agricultural modernization of Tanzania and Zambia.”
A railway of friendship and partnership: This talks about the aim to “exchange experience on governance and development for modernization, and facilitate promotion of the rich cultural and touristic resources for better global understanding of the diverse civilizations along the Belt.”
A railway for people’s welfare: “The three parties will carry out active cooperation on human resources training and capacity building with a view to helping local youth and women improve their vocational skills and employability and cultivating more high-quality professionals in support of the Prosperity Belt. The three parties are ready to work together to implement livelihood projects that improve the social economic well-being of the people.”
A railway of green development: “The three parties will make efforts to strengthen cooperation in green industry, e-commerce and payment, science and technology, artificial intelligence and other key areas, and strengthen cooperation on standardization, so as to promote the high-quality and sustainable development of the Prosperity Belt.”
A railway of regional harmony: “The three parties remain committed to the vision of a common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security endeavor aiming to build an efficient framework of lasting peace and security. The operation of the TAZARA Railway will serve as a prime example of a stable and modernized infrastructure project, fostering mutual prosperity, stability, peace and regional harmony. To this end, the three parties will remain steadfast in supporting efforts aimed at addressing peace and security concerns in the region.”
These six objectives will be achieved following the principle of efforts being “government-led, market-oriented, business-based and broadly participated”. Also: “The three parties welcome the participation of neighbouring countries as well as other international and regional partners, in the development of the Prosperity Belt to jointly promote regional integration and development.”
Li then traveled to South Africa, where he met President Cyril Ramaphosa. The report (English report) on the meeting says:
“Li conveyed cordial greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping to Ramaphosa, noting that for decades, China and South Africa have treated each other as close brothers, with a friendship that spans mountains and seas and has grown ever stronger. Under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, he said, China and South Africa are working together to advance an all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era, aiming to benefit the peoples of both countries. China, Li said, is ready to continue working with South Africa to carry forward their traditional friendship and expand cooperation across various fields, to better promote the common development of the two countries, as well as unity and cooperation between China and Africa as a whole.”
Li spoke about the Fourth Plenum, and then said:
“China is ready to strengthen alignment with South Africa in development strategies and promote the early implementation of zero-tariff treatment in the country, Li said. Li called on the two countries to leverage their complementary advantages in resources and economic structure, deepen cooperation in mining and infrastructure construction, develop new highlights in the auto industry, explore potential in emerging sectors such as new energy and artificial intelligence, and expand cooperation in science and technology innovation, including in satellite navigation and joint laboratory construction. He also urged China and South Africa to strengthen exchanges of experience in poverty reduction and rural revitalization, and advance cooperation in public health, culture, education and youth, among others, so as to enhance the sense of fulfillment of their peoples. China and South Africa have jointly initiated a cooperative initiative to support Africa’s modernization and encourage the international community to increase attention and investment in Africa, according to Li. Li also said China is ready to work with South Africa to strengthen coordination on platforms such as BRICS and the G20, implement the four global initiatives proposed by Xi, uphold the multilateral trading system, promote reform of the global governance system and safeguard the common interests of developing countries.”
Among other things, Ramaphosa reportedly said that:
“South Africa firmly adheres to the one-China policy and reiterates that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China’s territory. South Africa will continue to support China on issues concerning each other’s core interests. South Africa appreciates China’s support and assistance for its economic and social development and is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in trade, investment, mining, industry, science and technology, energy infrastructure, healthcare, and poverty reduction to benefit the people of both countries. South Africa is willing to provide a safe and favourable environment for Chinese enterprises to invest and operate in South Africa and will work with other African countries to make good use of China’s preferential policies to promote the in-depth development of China-Africa cooperation. South Africa highly appreciates the four global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping. South Africa expresses its sincere gratitude for China’s support in hosting the G20 Leaders’ Summit and its important role in achieving consensus and outcomes. South Africa is willing to strengthen communication and cooperation with China within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the G20 to jointly uphold multilateralism”.
Next, there’s a report on Li Qiang’s speech at the G20 on Saturday. Li said:
Currently, the world economy is facing enormous challenges again, with unilateralism and protectionism rampant, and various trade restrictions and confrontations increasing. Differences in interests and shortcomings in global cooperation mechanisms are prominent obstacles to international unity. The G20 should face these problems squarely, explore solutions, and push all parties back onto the track of unity and cooperation. 当前，世界经济再次面临巨大挑战，单边主义、保护主义甚嚣尘上，各种经贸限制和对立对抗增多。各方利益诉求存在差异、全球合作机制存在不足是阻碍国际社会团结比较突出的原因。二十国集团应当正视存在的问题，探寻解决之道，推动各方重回团结协作的正轨.
Li Qiang pointed out that in the face of a sluggish global economic recovery, we must adhere to mutual assistance and solidarity, firmly uphold free trade, and build an open world economy. Faced with differences and contradictions, we must adhere to seeking common ground while reserving differences, actively seeking the greatest common denominator of interests, properly handling disputes and frictions through equal consultation, and promoting the resolution of each party’s legitimate concerns. Faced with governance challenges, we must keep pace with the times, take the lead in upholding multilateralism, accelerate the reform of institutions such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Trade Organization, enhance the voice of developing countries, and build a more equitable and open international economic and trade order. China released its action plan for implementing the G20 Initiative on Supporting Industrialization in Africa and Least Developed Countries, supports debt relief for developing countries, jointly proposed the Initiative on Cooperation Supporting Modernization in Africa with South Africa, and will also establish the Institute of Global Development to promote common development among all countries. 李强指出，面对世界经济复苏乏力，我们要坚持和衷共济，坚定维护自由贸易，建设开放型世界经济。面对分歧矛盾，我们要坚持求同存异，积极寻找利益最大公约数，通过平等协商妥处纷争摩擦，推动解决各自合理关切。面对治理困局，我们要坚持与时偕行，带头坚持多边主义，加快推动世界银行、国际货币基金组织、世贸组织等机构改革，提升发展中国家话语权，构建更加公平开放的国际经贸秩序。中方发布了“落实《二十国集团支持非洲和最不发达国家工业化倡议》中国行动”，支持减缓发展中国家债务，同南非共同提出《支持非洲现代化合作倡议》，还将设立全球发展学院，推动各国共同发展.
In today’s paper, we have Li’s full speech at the G20 leaders’ summit. He made the following key points:
“Currently, we face multiple challenges, including climate change and energy and food security, requiring the international community to unite and collaborate to overcome these difficulties. The G20 should uphold the spirit of partnership, demonstrate greater political will, promote broader international cooperation, jointly address these challenges, and work together to drive development.
First, we must strengthen cooperation on ecological and environmental protection to enhance development resilience. Climate and ecological issues are crucial to the long-term development of all humanity. In recent years, extreme weather events have occurred frequently around the world, making the achievement of the Paris Agreement goals both urgent and challenging. The G20 should uphold the spirit of science, adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, demonstrate commitment, and take swift action. China has announced a new round of nationally determined contributions and is willing to strengthen cooperation with all parties within the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to accelerate the implementation of the outcomes of the 30th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Second, we must strengthen cooperation on green energy to promote an equitable transition. New energy sources, such as solar and wind power, naturally possess the characteristics of being inclusive and equitable. Promoting a green transition in the energy system will not only provide strong momentum for human development but also better guarantee the equal development rights of all countries. The G20 should promote global cooperation in green industries, maintain the stability and smooth flow of industrial and supply chains, and facilitate the free flow and application of related technologies and products. China has built the world’s largest renewable energy system and cooperates with more than 100 countries and regions in green energy. Over the past five years, the wind and solar power products it has provided to the world have cumulatively reduced carbon emissions by approximately 4.1 billion tons for other countries. China is willing to continue to provide support for the energy transition of all countries to the best of its ability.
Third, we should strengthen cooperation on food security and ensure stable supply. Currently, more than 700 million people around the world still face the threat of hunger, and concrete actions must be taken to help them. The G20 should promote the optimization of global food circulation and supply, build a partnership in commodities, construct an open, stable, and sustainable global food market, and strengthen supply guarantees for countries with food shortages. At the same time, we should make good use of platforms such as the G20 Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting to strengthen agricultural science and technology cooperation and improve food production capacity. China is willing to work with all countries to promote the implementation of international food security cooperation initiatives and make new contributions to the fight against hunger and poverty.
当前，气候变化、能源、粮食等多重挑战叠加，尤其需要国际社会以团结凝聚力量、靠协作破解难题。二十国集团应当发扬伙伴精神，展现更加积极的政治意愿，推动更为广泛的国际合作，共同应对挑战，合力推动发展。第一，加强生态环保合作，提升发展韧性。气候和生态问题关系全人类的长远发展，这些年全球极端天气等事件频发，实现《巴黎协定》目标时间紧迫，任重道远。二十国集团应当秉持科学精神，坚持共同但有区别的责任原则，体现担当，抓紧行动。中国已宣布新一轮国家自主贡献目标，愿同各方加强“昆明—蒙特利尔全球生物多样性框架”内合作，推动《联合国气候变化框架公约》第三十次缔约方大会成果加快落地。第二，加强绿色能源合作，推进公正转型。太阳能、风能等新能源天然具有普惠公平的特点。推动能源体系绿色转型，不仅将为人类发展提供强劲动能，也将更好保障各国平等发展权利。二十国集团应当推动全球绿色产业合作，保持产业链供应链稳定畅通，促进相关技术、产品的自由流通应用。中国已建成全球最大的可再生能源体系，同100多个国家和地区开展绿色能源合作，过去5年向世界提供的风电光伏产品累计为其他国家减少约41亿吨碳排放。中方愿继续以自身所能，为各国能源转型提供支持。第三，加强粮食安全合作，保障稳定供应。现在全球仍有7亿多人面临饥饿威胁，必须采取切实行动为他们提供帮助。二十国集团应当推动优化全球粮食流通供给，构建大宗商品合作伙伴关系，建设开放、稳定、可持续的全球粮食市场，强化对粮食短缺国家的供应保障。同时，用好二十国集团农业部长会等平台，加强农业科技合作，提升粮食生产能力。中方愿同各国一起推动落实国际粮食安全合作倡议，为抗击饥饿与贫困作出新贡献。
Then on new technologies, Li made the following points:
First, we must promote the widespread application and effective governance of AI. AI development relies on the collective wisdom of all humanity, and openness and inclusiveness are essential. The G20 should actively promote cooperation in AI research and development and the sharing of results, bridging the intelligence gap and improving governance rules. China is a major contributor to open-source AI technology and welcomes more countries to join the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization and the Open Science International Cooperation Action Plan, promoting the healthy and orderly development of AI in a beneficial, safe, and equitable direction.
Second, we must promote mutually beneficial cooperation and peaceful use of key minerals. This is crucial for the sustainable supply of key minerals and the maintenance of global resource security. The G20 should support the UN Secretary-General’s Group on Critical Minerals for Energy Transition in playing a positive role, implementing the G20 Critical Minerals Framework, promoting the optimisation of the distribution of benefits across all links of the industrial and supply chains, better safeguarding the interests of developing countries, while prudently addressing military and other uses to prevent security risks. China, together with relevant parties, has proposed the ‘International Economic and Trade Cooperation Initiative on Green Mining and Minerals’, and welcomes active participation from all parties.
Third, we should strengthen development empowerment and livelihood support for the Global South. The G20 should increase capacity-building assistance to developing countries such as those in Africa, particularly leveraging the role of science and technology to create more jobs and promote the development of women and youth. China is willing to work with all parties to implement the Mandela Bay Goals, enabling more young people to benefit from economic globalization.
一是推进人工智能的普及应用与有效治理。人工智能发展依赖全人类的共同智慧，开放普惠是必然要求。二十国集团应积极推进人工智能研发合作与成果共享，弥合智能鸿沟，完善治理规则。中国是人工智能技术主要的开源贡献国，欢迎更多国家加入世界人工智能合作组织、《开放科学国际合作行动计划》等，推动人工智能朝着有益、安全、公平方向健康有序发展。二是促进关键矿产的互惠合作与和平利用。这对关键矿产的可持续供应、维护全球资源安全至关重要。二十国集团应支持“联合国秘书长能源转型关键矿产小组”发挥积极作用，落实《二十国集团关键矿产框架》，推动优化产业链供应链各环节利益分配，更好维护发展中国家利益，同时审慎对待军事等用途，防范安全风险。中国同有关方提出《绿色矿产国际经贸合作倡议》，欢迎各方积极参与。三是强化对全球南方的发展赋能与民生支持。二十国集团应加大对非洲等发展中国家的能力建设帮助，特别是发挥科技赋能作用，创造更多就业岗位，促进妇女、青年群体发展。中方愿同各方一道落实曼德拉湾目标，让更多青年从经济全球化中获益。
Finally, there are two bilateral meetings that I’d like to cover. First, the report on Li’s meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni says:
“Li Qiang pointed out that China is willing to allow Italy to continue to promote two-way opening-up, strengthen market and industrial connectivity, promote the optimised and balanced development of bilateral trade, strengthen traditional cooperative advantages, expand exchanges and cooperation in emerging industries, and promote common development and prosperity. China welcomes more Italian companies to enter the Chinese market through platforms such as the China International Import Expo, the China International Fair for Trade in Services, the China International Consumer Goods Expo, and the China International Supply Chain Expo, and hopes that Italy will provide a fair, transparent, non-discriminatory, and predictable business environment for Chinese companies investing in Italy. Both sides should strengthen cultural and people-to-people exchanges in tourism, education, sports, youth, and local areas, facilitating people-to-people exchanges and promoting mutual understanding and affinity between the people. China is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with Italy within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the G20, to build broader consensus, and to enhance the international community’s confidence and resolve in upholding multilateralism and consolidating multilateral mechanisms.” 李强指出，中方愿同意方持续推进双向开放，加强市场、产业等联通对接，推动双边贸易优化平衡发展，做强传统合作优势，拓展新兴产业交流合作，促进共同发展繁荣。中方欢迎更多意大利企业借助进博会、服贸会、消博会、链博会等平台进入中国市场，希望意方为中国企业赴意投资提供公平、透明、非歧视、可预期的营商环境。双方要加强旅游、教育、体育、青年、地方等人文合作，便利人员往来，促进国民相知相亲。中方愿同意方加强在联合国、二十国集团等多边框架下的协调配合，凝聚更广泛共识，增强国际社会践行多边主义、筑牢多边机制的信心和定力.
Second, Li met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The report says:
“Noting that in May, Chinese President Xi Jinping had a phone call with Merz, charting the course for further deepening bilateral relations, Li said mutual respect is the principle guiding China-Germany relations, and win-win cooperation is their defining feature. Developing a stable, sustainable and high-quality all-round strategic partnership is in line with the fundamental interests of the two peoples, he said. Developing a stable, sustainable, and high-quality all-round strategic partnership between China and Germany is in the fundamental interests of both peoples. China is willing to strengthen strategic communication with Germany, adhere to respecting each other’s core interests and major concerns, consolidate the political foundation for the development of bilateral relations, expand pragmatic cooperation in various fields, and continuously enrich the connotation of bilateral relations. 今年5月，习近平主席同总理先生通话，就进一步深化双边关系指明了方向。在中德关系中，相互尊重是原则，合作共赢是底色。中德发展稳定、可持续、高质量的全方位战略伙伴关系，符合两国人民的根本利益。中方愿同德方加强战略沟通，坚持尊重彼此核心利益和重大关切，打牢两国关系发展的政治基础，拓展各领域务实合作，不断丰富双边关系内涵.
Li Qiang pointed out that China and Germany are important economic and trade partners. The two governments should work together to strengthen dialogue and communication and properly handle their respective concerns. He hoped that Germany would uphold a rational and pragmatic policy towards China, eliminate interference and pressure, focus on common interests, and consolidate the foundation of cooperation. China is willing to work with Germany to seize future development opportunities, carry out innovative cooperation with an open attitude, create highlights in cooperation in emerging fields such as new energy, intelligent manufacturing, biomedicine, hydrogen energy technology, and intelligent driving, promote industrial transformation and upgrading, and stimulate new momentum for cooperation. 李强指出，中德互为重要经贸伙伴。两国政府应当一道努力，加强对话沟通，妥处各自关切。希望德方秉持理性务实的对华政策，排除干扰压力，聚焦共同利益，巩固合作根基。中方愿同德方共同把握未来发展机遇，以开放姿态开展创新合作，打造新能源、智能制造、生物医药、氢能技术、智能驾驶等新兴领域合作亮点，推动产业转型升级，激发合作新动能.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU. China hopes Germany will encourage the EU to view China-EU relations with a broader vision, a longer-term perspective, and a more open mind, uphold its partnership with China, strengthen dialogue and cooperation, and jointly promote the development and prosperity of both China and the EU. China is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with Germany within mechanisms such as the United Nations and the G20, promote the improvement of global governance, uphold multilateralism and free trade, and act as a constructive and definite force for promoting peace and development. 今年是中欧建交50周年。希望德方推动欧盟以更广阔视野、更长远眼光、更开放心态看待中欧关系，坚持对华伙伴定位，加强双方对话合作，共促中欧发展繁荣。中方愿同德方加强在联合国、二十国集团等机制的沟通协调，推动完善全球治理，维护多边主义和自由贸易，做促进和平与发展的建设性、确定性力量.
The Chinese readout had Merz saying that “Germany values its relations with China and believes that China’s 15th Five-Year Plan will bring opportunities to Germany and the EU.” And that “Germany is willing to maintain an open attitude, deepen bilateral political and economic relations”, “explore the potential for cooperation in emerging fields such as science and technology” and “is willing to play a constructive role in promoting EU-China dialogue.”
Moving away from Li’s visit to Africa, there’s an interview with Wang Yi, talking about his visit to three Central Asian Countries.
Wang said that he “briefed the three countries on the significant meaning and core content of the 15th Five-Year Plan, emphasizing that China will leverage the unique advantages of the socialist system with Chinese characteristics, implement the blueprint to the end, and work continuously under the leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core to advance Chinese-style modernisation and continue to create the two miracles of rapid economic development and long-term social stability. China’s commitment to high-quality development and high-level opening-up will bring new development opportunities and open up new spaces for cooperation to peripheral countries, including Central Asian countries, and countries around the world. All three countries highly recognize China’s successful governance model and are willing to further learn from its beneficial experience in governance, expecting China to provide greater certainty and stability to countries in the region and the world. 我向三国介绍了“十五五”规划建议的重大意义和核心内涵，强调中方将发挥中国特色社会主义制度的独特优势，一张蓝图绘到底，一茬接着一茬干，在以习近平同志为核心的党中央领导下，接续奋斗推进中国式现代化，续写经济快速发展和社会长期稳定两大奇迹。中国坚持高质量发展，推进高水平开放，将为包括中亚国家在内周边邻国以及世界各国带来新的发展机遇，开拓新的合作空间。三国均高度认同中国的成功治理模式，愿意进一步借鉴有益的治国理政经验，期待中国为地区各国和世界提供更多的确定性和稳定性.
On this trip, I personally experienced the stability of the political situations in the three countries and their entry into a new era of rapid economic development and accelerated industrialisation, with vibrant scenes everywhere. As a friendly neighbour of the three countries, we are pleased by this. Next year will be the first year of China’s 15th FYP. The Chinese side will use this as an opportunity to expand areas of cooperation with all Central Asian countries, enrich the content of cooperation, enhance the quality and efficiency of cooperation, and release the potential of cooperation, becoming fellow travelers on the road toward modernisation, opening up a new realm of high-quality development for China–Central Asia cooperation, and building an even closer China–Central Asia community with a shared future. 此行切身感到，三国政局保持稳定，相继进入经济快速发展、工业化起步加速的新时期，到处呈现生机勃勃的景象。作为三国的友好邻邦，我们为此感到高兴。明年是中国“十五五”规划开局之年，中方将以此为契机，同中亚各国扩大合作领域、丰富合作内容、提升合作质效、释放合作潜能，做奔向现代化道路上的同行者，开辟中国中亚合作高质量发展新境界，打造更加紧密的中国—中亚命运共同体.
The second question is about how China will work with Central Asian countries to address emerging challenges.
In this regard, Wang talked about GGI, saying that the three Central Asian countries “highly appreciate” President Xi Jinping’s four global initiatives, “believing that these major initiatives conform to the common aspirations of people around the world and meet the urgent needs of the world today. They said that the Chinese side has already and will continue to play a crucial leading role in advancing the reform of the global governance system. The world even more needs China, even more relies on China, even more trusts China. The three countries are willing to work with China to put genuine multilateralism into practice with concrete actions, jointly safeguard the international system with the UN at its core and the international order based on international law, and defend the legitimate rights and interests of all countries in the region and international fairness and justice. The three countries confirmed their participation in the Friends of Global Governance Group and their intention to join the International Organization for Mediation as soon as possible. China welcomes Central Asian countries to play a greater role in international and regional affairs and is willing to work with all parties to strengthen mutual support on the multilateral stage, jointly bolster the Global South, jointly amplify the voice of global justice, and jointly strive to build a more just and equitable global governance system.” 中亚三国高度赞赏习近平主席提出的全球发展倡议、全球安全倡议、全球文明倡议、全球治理倡议，认为这些重大倡议顺应各国人民普遍愿望，符合当今世界迫切需求。他们表示，中方在推进全球治理体系变革中已经并将继续发挥至关重要的引领作用。世界更加需要中国，更加依靠中国，更加信任中国。三国愿同中方一道，以实际行动践行真正的多边主义，共同维护以联合国为核心的国际体系、以国际法为基础的国际秩序，捍卫本地区各国的正当权益和国际公平正义。三国确认将参加全球治理之友小组，尽快加入国际调解院。中方欢迎中亚国家在国际和地区事务中发挥更大作用，愿同各方加大在多边舞台上的相互支持，共同壮大全球南方力量，共同发出全球正义之声，共同为构建更加公正合理的全球治理体系做出努力.
The third question is about China-Central Asia cooperation. Wang said that five years ago, China and the five Central Asian countries jointly established the China-Central Asia mechanism.
“In 2023, after the mechanism was upgraded to the heads-of-state level, summits were successfully held twice, in Xi’an and Astana. The framework of the mechanism has been rapidly established; 13 ministerial-level cooperation platforms are operating effectively; and the permanent secretariat is fully operational”.
Trade between China and Central Asia continues to rise; China has become Central Asia’s largest trading partner. In the first three quarters of this year, bilateral trade between China and the five Central Asian countries approached $80 billion, a year-on-year increase of 15.6%, and is expected to exceed $100 billion for the whole year. The trade structure between the two sides is constantly being optimized, and more and more high-quality Central Asian products are entering the Chinese market.
Investment between China and Central Asia is also continuously expanding. China has become a major source of investment for Central Asian countries. To date, China’s cumulative investment in Central Asian countries has exceeded $50 billion, with continued consolidation in traditional sectors such as agriculture, energy, and infrastructure, and strengthened cooperation in emerging fields such as 5G, new energy, and artificial intelligence.
People-to-people exchanges between China and Central Asian countries are flourishing. In the first three quarters of this year, the number of residents from the five Central Asian countries entering China increased by 37.7% year-on-year, while the number of mainland Chinese residents traveling to Central Asia increased by 50% year-on-year. Direct flights between China and Central Asian countries have exceeded 100 per week, and the number of sister cities has reached 100 pairs. Chinese cultural centers, Confucius Institutes, and Luban workshops are widely welcomed in Central Asian countries, playing an important role in spreading friendship and promoting cooperation.
China is willing to work with Central Asian countries to aim at the goal of building a community with a shared future, continuously expanding cooperation areas, increasing the scale of cooperation, and raising the level of cooperation, accelerating common development through mutually beneficial cooperation, and better benefiting all countries and their people.
2023年，中国—中亚机制升级至元首层级后，先后在中国西安和哈萨克斯坦阿斯塔纳两度成功举行峰会，机制建设的四梁八柱迅速成型，13个部级合作平台有效运作，机制常设秘书处全面运营，正在呈现出元首引领、政府推动、各界参与、多轨并行、全面推进的立体多元合作格局。中国同中亚贸易水平不断攀升，已成为中亚最大贸易伙伴。今年前三季度，中国同中亚五国双边贸易额接近800亿美元、同比增长15.6%，全年有望突破1000亿美元大关。双方贸易结构正在不断优化，越来越多的中亚优质产品进入中国市场。中国同中亚投资规模也在持续扩大。中国成为中亚国家主要投资来源国。截至目前，中国对中亚国家投资累计超过500亿美元，农业、能源、基础设施等传统领域持续巩固，5G、新能源、人工智能等新兴领域合作不断加强。中国同中亚国家民间往来蓬勃发展。今年前三季度，中亚五国居民入境中国人数同比增长37.7%，中国内地居民赴中亚人数同比增长50%。中国同中亚国家直航航班已突破每周100次，友城数量达到100对。中国文化中心、孔子学院、鲁班工坊在中亚各国广受欢迎，发挥着传播友谊、促进合作的重要作用。中方愿同中亚国家一道，锚定命运共同体奋斗目标，不断拓展合作领域、扩大合作规模、提升合作层级，在互利合作中加快共同发展，更好造福各国和各国人民.
Wang then compares China’s Central Asia mechanism with those of other major powers. Do recall that Donald Trump recently hosted the C5 leaders. India also has a C5 engagement mechanism. This is the first time that I have seen such a question being asked in such interviews. I think it is important and it tells you what happens when there is competition offering regional actors the opportunity to hedge.
Wang said:
“Compared with other C5+1 mechanisms, the most distinctive feature of China-Central Asia cooperation is that it is a neighbourly and brotherly relationship; its greatest advantage is having mutual need and complementarity; and its greatest consensus is mutual benefit and win-win cooperation. Since its establishment, the China-Central Asia mechanism has been based on the practical needs of Central Asian countries, steadily carrying out pragmatic cooperation in various fields, promoting the leapfrog development of China-Central Asia relations, forming a comprehensive, wide-ranging, and multi-level cooperation pattern, and demonstrating its distinct and unique value of high efficiency and pragmatism. The second China-Central Asia Summit held in June 2025 established the ‘China-Central Asia Spirit’, with ‘mutual respect, mutual trust, mutual benefit, and mutual assistance, and promoting common modernization through high-quality development’ at its core. This spirit reveals the successful code of friendly exchanges between China and Central Asian countries and provides fundamental guidance for future China-Central Asia cooperation. 同其他C5+1机制相比，中国中亚合作的最大特点是毗邻而居、手足相亲；最大优势是互有需要、互为补充；最大共识是互利互惠、合作共赢。中国—中亚机制成立以来，我们立足中亚国家的现实需要，踏踏实实开展各领域务实合作，推动中国—中亚关系实现跨越式发展，形成全方位、宽领域、多层次合作格局，彰显出高效务实的鲜明和独特价值。今年6月召开的第二届中国—中亚峰会确立了以“互尊、互信、互利、互助，以高质量发展推进共同现代化”为核心的“中国—中亚精神”，揭示了中国同中亚国家友好交往的成功密码，为中国—中亚未来合作提供了根本遵循.
We have always adhered to the principle of treating all countries equally, regardless of size, and making decisions through consensus; we have always adhered to mutual trust and support, and our cooperation has never attached any political conditions; we have always adhered to common development, working together to address various risks and challenges, and safeguarding regional common security. This is why the China-Central Asia mechanism has stood out among various C5+1 mechanisms, gaining widespread recognition and support from countries in the region. Central Asian countries generally believe that China is their most trustworthy and reliable partner. 我们始终坚持国家不分大小一视同仁，协商一致作决策；我们始终坚持相互信任、相互支持，合作从不附带任何政治条件；我们始终坚持共同发展，携手应对各类风险挑战，维护地区共同安全。正因如此，中国—中亚机制在各类C5+1机制中脱颖而出，得到地区国家广泛认可和支持。中亚国家普遍认为，中国才是最可信赖和依靠的合作伙伴.
The final question states the fact that the political documents issued after the meetings in the three countries saw all of them reaffirm their commitment to the one-China principle. Wang informs:
“China is willing to be a staunch supporter and strong defender of peace, stability, and development in Central Asia. We oppose interference in the internal affairs of Central Asian countries and will never allow anyone or any force to create division and instability. I briefed the three foreign ministers on China’s principled position on the Taiwan issue and exposed the erroneous words and deeds of the current Japanese leader who has openly infringed upon China’s core interests and challenged the post-World War II international order. The three countries publicly emphasised that there is only one China in the world; Taiwan is an inseparable part of China’s territory; they oppose any form of ‘Taiwan independence’; and firmly support all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification. This collective statement is timely, supporting China’s legitimate position on the Taiwan issue, upholding the basic norms of international relations, and clearly demonstrating once again that the one-China principle is an unshakable universal consensus of the international community.” 中方愿意做中亚和平、稳定、发展的坚定支持者和有力维护者，我们反对干涉中亚国家的内政，决不允许任何人、任何势力制造分裂和动荡。我向三国外长介绍了中国在台湾问题上的原则立场，揭露了日本现职领导人公然侵害中国核心利益、挑战二战后国际秩序的错误言行。三国公开强调，世界上只有一个中国，台湾是中国领土不可分割的一部分，反对任何形式的“台湾独立”，坚定支持中国政府为实现国家统一所作的一切努力。这一集体发声正当其时，既支持了中国在台湾问题上的正当立场，又维护了国际关系的基本准则，再次清晰表明，一个中国原则是国际社会不可动摇的普遍共识.
This year is the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The return of Taiwan—which Japan ‘stole’—to China is clearly stipulated in a series of international documents, including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Declaration, and the Japanese Instrument of Surrender. This is an undeniable achievement of the victory in World War II and an international obligation that Japan, as a defeated nation, must continue to uphold. In this crucial year, what Japan most ought to do is deeply reflect on the history of its invasion and colonial rule of Taiwan back then, deeply reflect on the war crimes committed by militarism, and, on the Taiwan issue and historical issues, follow rules and behave properly, and be cautious in words and deeds. But what is shocking is that Japan’s current serving leader actually publicly sent out wrong signals, attempting to intervene by force in the Taiwan question; said words that should not be said, crossed red lines that should not be touched. The Chinese side must respond forcefully; this is both to safeguard China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and also to defend the post-war gains won with blood and life, and uphold international justice and human conscience.” 今年是中国人民抗日战争暨世界反法西斯战争胜利80周年，把日本当年“窃取”的台湾归还中国明确规定于《开罗宣言》、《波茨坦公告》、日本投降书等一系列国际文件，是不可否认的二战胜利成果，也是日本作为战败国必须持续遵守的国际义务。在今年这一关键年头，日本最应该做的是，深刻反省当年侵略殖民台湾的历史，深刻反省军国主义犯下的战争罪行，在台湾和历史问题上遵规守矩、谨言慎行。但令人震惊的是，日本现职领导人竟然公开发出试图武力介入台湾问题的错误信号，讲了不该讲的话，越了不应碰的红线。中方必须予以坚决回击，这既是维护中国的主权与领土完整，也是捍卫用鲜血和生命换来的战后成果，维护国际正义和人类良知.
The Chinese people love peace and cherish benevolent relations with neighbours, but on major issues of principle involving national sovereignty and territorial integrity, there will absolutely not be any compromise or retreat. The Japanese government has made a solemn commitment in the four China–Japan political documents regarding the Taiwan issue, a commitment that has the effect of international law, leaving no space for any ambiguity or distortion. No matter which party or which person is in power in Japan, it must be strictly observed. Without credibility, a person cannot establish himself; without credibility, a country cannot stand in the world. The Chinese side urges the Japanese side to reflect and correct its mistakes as soon as possible, and not obstinately refuse to see reason or admit mistakes. If the Japanese side insists on going its own way and repeatedly makes mistakes, then all countries and peoples who uphold justice have the right to re-settle accounts for Japan’s historical crimes, and have the responsibility to resolutely prevent the revival of Japanese militarism.” 中国人民爱好和平、亲仁善邻，但在事关国家主权和领土完整的大是大非问题上，绝不会有任何妥协退让。日本政府在中日四个政治文件中已就台湾问题作出郑重承诺，具有国际法效力，没有任何模糊、曲解的空间。无论日本哪个党派、哪个人执政，都必须恪守。人无信无以立身，国无信无以立世。中方敦促日方早日反思改错，不要执迷不悟。如果日方一意孤行、一错再错，一切主张正义的国家和人民，都有权利对日本的历史罪行进行再清算，都有责任坚决阻止日本军国主义死灰复燃。