Xi at G20: If China Can Make it, Other Developing Countries Can Too - Jaishankar-Wang Meeting Analysis - Xi Meets Macron, Scholz, Milei, Arce & Sheinbaum - Zhong Sheng Commentary on US Ties
Here are the key reports and articles that I found noteworthy from the People’s Daily’s edition on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
Page 1: I covered Xi Jinping’s G20 speech on global governance yesterday. Today, let’s look at Xi’s speech (full speech) at Session I of the G20 Summit in Rio. Both these are covered in the paper today. Xi said:
“The Rio Summit this year has chosen the theme ‘Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.’ It places fighting hunger and poverty at the top of the agenda, and decides to establish a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. From Hangzhou to Rio, we have been working for one and the same goal, that is, to build a just world of common development. To build such a world, we need to channel more resources to such fields as trade, investment and development cooperation, and strengthen development institutions. There should be more bridges of cooperation, and less ‘small yard, high fences’, so that more and more developing countries will be better off and achieve modernization. To build such a world, we need to support developing countries in adopting sustainable production and lifestyle, properly responding to challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution, enhancing ecological conservation, and achieving harmony between man and nature. To build such a world, we need an open, inclusive and non-discriminatory environment for international economic cooperation. We should promote a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, energize sustainable development with new technologies, new industries and new business forms, and support developing countries in better integrating in digital, smart and green development to bridge the North-South gap. To build such a world, we need to stay committed to multilateralism. We should uphold the UN-centered international system, the international order underpinned by international law, and the basic norms of international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.”
He added: “China’s story is proof that developing countries can eliminate poverty, and that a weaker bird can start early and fly high, when there is the endurance, perseverance, and striving spirit that enables water drops to penetrate rocks over time and turns blueprints into reality. If China can make it, other developing countries can make it too. This is what China’s battle against poverty says to the world.”
He then termed China a member of the Global South and outlined 8 actions. Apart from the initiative on open science and the decision to join the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, nothing seems new in this list.
First, pursuing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. On top of RMB700 billion yuan added financing windows and an additional RMB80 billion yuan injection into the Silk Road Fund, China is moving ahead with the development of the multidimensional Belt and Road connectivity network, one that is led by the building of a green Silk Road and will empower a digital Silk Road.
Second, implementing the Global Development Initiative. On the basis of over 1,100 development projects already in operation, we will make sure the Global South research center that is being built is fit for purpose, and the 20 billion U.S. dollars of development funds will continue to be put to good use to support developing countries and deepen practical cooperation in areas such as poverty reduction, food security and the digital economy.
Third, supporting development in Africa. At the Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation held in September this year, I unveiled ten partnership actions on joining hands with Africa to advance modernization over the next three years and, in this connection, a commitment of RMB360 billion yuan in financial support.
Fourth, supporting international cooperation on poverty reduction and food security. China has decided to join the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. We support the G20 in continuing to convene the Development Ministerial Meeting, and will stay a committed host of the International Conference on Food Loss and Waste.
Fifth, China, alongside Brazil, South Africa and the African Union, is proposing an Initiative on International Cooperation in Open Science to help the Global South gain better access to global advances in science, technology and innovation.
Sixth, supporting the G20 in carrying out practical cooperation for the benefit of the Global South and using such outcomes as the Roadmap to Increase Investment in Clean Energy in Developing Countries and the High-Level Principles on Bioeconomy to good effect. China supports the work of the Entrepreneurship Research Center on G20 Economies based in Beijing, and supports cooperation on digital education and the digitization of museums and ancient archives.
Seventh, implementing the G20 Anti-Corruption Action Plan. We are strengthening cooperation with fellow developing countries in fugitive repatriation and asset recovery, denial of safe haven, and anti-corruption capacity building.
Eighth, China is pursuing high-standard opening up, and unilaterally opening our doors wider to the least developed countries (LDCs). We have announced the decision to give all LDCs having diplomatic relations with China zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines. From now to 2030, China’s imports from other developing countries are likely to top 8 trillion dollars.
Next, there is a report about Xi’s meeting with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo. Xinhua says:
“Xi once again congratulated Sheinbaum on becoming the first female president in the history of Mexico…Xi said China and Mexico share similar views and ideas on many international issues, and both countries advocate a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation. China is ready to work with Mexico to uphold multilateralism and international fairness and justice, and inject positive energy into the development of the world economy.”
The report adds: “Sheinbaum expressed her pleasure in meeting Xi, noting that she fully agrees with Xi’s assessment of the relationship between the two countries. Although Mexico and China are far apart in distance, their ties are very close. Many Chinese companies operate in Mexico, including participating in the construction of major infrastructure projects in Mexico City, she said. She also expressed her gratitude for China’s generous and sincere assistance during Mexico’s difficult times such as the hurricane disaster, which is testament to the friendship between the two peoples. Both Mexico and China are committed to upholding multilateralism. Mexico is willing to work with China to explore potential opportunities while further expanding cooperation in various fields, added Sheinbaum.”
Finally, there’s a report (English report) on Xi and Emmanuel Macron having prefaced an exhibition titled ‘Tang China -- A Cosmopolitan Dynasty (7th-10th Century)’.
Although it is not in the paper today, Xi also met with Macron at the sidelines of the G20 in Rio. The Chinese readout says:
“Xi Jinping pointed out that both China and France are independent, mature and responsible major countries. The relationship between the two countries has unique strategic value and global significance…At present, the international situation is undergoing many new changes, and leading the international community to unite in addressing global challenges is a major power responsibility jointly borne by China and France. Both sides should deepen strategic communication, strengthen mutual support, and maintain the steady and positive development momentum of China-France relations, contributing more to the healthy development of China-Europe relations and to world peace and stability. Xi Jinping stressed that China is willing to continue close high-level exchanges with France, continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation in the humanities fields, such as culture, education, local governance, and youth, to enhance mutual understanding between the Chinese and French people. The Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has opened a new round of reform and opening up in China, which will provide new opportunities for China-France cooperation and the prospects for practical cooperation between the two sides are broad. It is hoped that the two sides will make good use of mechanisms such as high-level economic and financial dialogues and the mixed economic and trade committees to tap the potential for cooperation, strengthen complementary advantages, properly resolve differences, and achieve mutual benefit and win-win results. 习近平指出，中法都是独立、成熟、有担当的大国，两国关系具有独特的战略价值和全球意义...当前国际形势发生许多新变化，引领国际社会团结应对全球性挑战，是中法共同担负的大国责任。双方要深化战略沟通，加强相互支持，保持中法关系稳健、积极发展势头，为中欧关系良性发展和世界和平稳定作出更大贡献。习近平强调，中方愿同法方继续密切高层交往，持续深化文化、教育、地方、青年等人文领域交流合作，促进中法民心相通。中国共产党二十届三中全会开启了中国新一轮改革开放进程，将为中法合作提供新机遇，双方务实合作前景广阔。希望双方用好高级别经济财金对话、经贸混委会等机制，深挖合作潜力，加强优势互补，妥善解决分歧，实现互利共赢.
As per the Chinese readout, Macron said that:
“The world today is full of instability and uncertainty. France is willing to work with China to earnestly implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, continue to strengthen high-level exchanges, enhance cultural exchanges, continue traditional friendship, and build a new type of state-to-state relations. France adheres to strategic autonomy and is willing to conduct dialogue and cooperation with China in the spirit of mutual respect, properly handle economic and trade disputes, maintain the healthy and stable development of bilateral economic and trade relations, and strengthen cooperation in areas such as addressing climate change and global governance of AI.” 当今世界充满各种不稳定不确定因素。法方愿同中方认真落实两国元首达成的共识，继续密切高层交往，增进人文交流，赓续传统友谊，打造新型国与国关系。法国坚持战略自主，愿秉持相互尊重精神同中方开展对话合作，妥善处理经贸争端，维护双方经贸关系健康稳定发展，加强应对气候变化、人工智能全球治理等领域合作。
They also talked about the war in Ukraine. Xi said that “China hopes to see the conflict situation eased, does not wish to see the crisis spill over or the war escalate, and will continue to play a constructive role in its own way to promote a ceasefire and the cessation of hostilities.” 习近平指出，中方在乌克兰危机问题上的立场是一贯的，希望冲突局势得到缓解，不愿看到危机外溢、战事升级，将继续以自己的方式为停火止战发挥建设性作用.
Next, Xi met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The Chinese readout says:
At present, the profound, once-in-a-century changes taking place in the world are accelerating, and global development is at a crucial crossroads. China and Germany, as the world’s second and third largest economies and influential major powers, should persist in consolidating their comprehensive strategic partnership from a long-term and strategic perspective, and continue writing the story of mutually beneficial cooperation. Xi Jinping emphasised that China’s policy toward Germany maintains high stability and continuity. China is willing to work with Germany to persist in respecting each other’s core interests and major concerns, persist in seeking common ground while reserving differences, and exchange and learn from each other. China and Germany’s economic interests are highly intertwined, and China-Germany cooperation is an opportunity to jointly promote development and create the future. China views Germany as an important partner in advancing Chinese-style modernization, and will continue to provide broad market opportunities for German enterprises. Both sides should focus on digitalization, intelligence, and low-carbon development to promote cooperation quality upgrade, work together to develop third-party markets, and achieve win-win cooperation. China believes Europe is an important pole in a multipolar world, is committed to carrying out cooperation with Europe, working together to respond to challenges, and promoting the continued stable and healthy development of China-EU relations. The EU’s imposition of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles has attracted worldwide attention. China has always insisted on resolving differences through dialogue and consultation, and hopes Germany will continue to play an important role in this.” 当前，世界百年变局加速演进，全球发展处于关键十字路口。中国和德国作为世界第二、第三大经济体和具有重要影响力的大国，要坚持从长远和战略角度巩固中德全方位战略伙伴关系，续写相互成就的合作故事。习近平强调，中方对德政策保持高度稳定性和连续性，愿同德方一道，坚持尊重彼此核心利益和重大关切，坚持求同存异、交流互鉴。中德经济利益高度互融，中德合作是共促发展、共创未来的机遇。中方视德国为推进中国式现代化的重要合作伙伴，将继续为德国企业提供广阔市场机遇。双方要围绕数字化、智能化、低碳化推动合作提质升级，携手开拓第三方市场，实现合作共赢。中方认为欧洲是多极化世界的重要一极，致力于同欧洲开展合作，携手应对挑战，推动中欧关系持续稳定健康发展。欧盟对中国电动汽车加征关税引发全世界关注。中方始终坚持通过对话磋商解决分歧，希望德方继续为此发挥重要作用.
As per the Chinese readout, Scholz touched upon the “complex international situation” that persists and expressed a desire to “further develop a comprehensive strategic partnership with China; strengthen bilateral and multilateral dialogue and cooperation in the spirit of equality, candidness and mutual respect; properly resolve differences, achieve mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, and contribute to the recovery, growth and common prosperity of the world economy. It is hoped that Europe and China will resolve the issue of electric vehicles as soon as possible through dialogue and negotiation, and Germany is willing to make positive efforts in this regard.” 德方希望同中方进一步发展全方位战略伙伴关系，本着平等、坦诚和相互尊重的精神加强双多边对话合作，妥善解决分歧，实现互利共赢，为世界经济复苏增长和共同繁荣作出贡献。希望欧中通过对话谈判尽快解决电动汽车问题，德方愿就此作出积极努力.
They also discussed the Ukraine war and the situation in the Middle East.
Third, there’s a readout from Xi’s meeting with Bolivian President Luis Arce. It says:
Xi called China and Bolivia “good friends and brothers”. He talked about BRI cooperation and said that he hoped to take the 40th anniversary of the establishment of ties next year to push their “strategic partnership to a new level”.
“Xi Jinping stressed that the two sides should strengthen exchanges between governments, legislatures, political parties and at sub-national levels, carry out in-depth exchanges of experience in governance, align BRI with Bolivia’s 2025 development plan, expand cooperation in infrastructure construction, highland agriculture, green development, digital economy and other fields, deepen collaboration within multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations and BRICS to promote unity, self-reliance, and common development among Global South countries. China supports the development of Latin American regional integration and is willing to work with Bolivia to strengthen the construction of the China-Latin America Forum mechanism.” 习近平强调，双方要加强政府、立法机构、政党、地方交往，深入开展治国理政经验交流，将共建“一带一路”倡议同玻利维亚2025年发展规划对接，拓展基础设施建设、高原农业、绿色发展、数字经济等领域合作，深化在联合国、金砖国家等多边机制协作，推动全球南方国家团结自强和共同发展。中方支持拉美地区一体化建设，愿同玻方一道，加强中拉论坛机制建设.
Acre praised the “deep brotherly friendship” between China and Bolivia. He added: “Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China’s modernisation has made great achievements, providing an important reference point and guidance for the development of Bolivia and other countries.” 在习近平主席领导下，中国式现代化取得巨大成就，为玻利维亚等国家发展提供了重要借鉴和指引.
Fourth, Xi met with Argentine President Javier Milei. The Chinese readout says:
Xi said that since the establishment of diplomatic ties, “both sides have adhered to mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit. China’s policy toward Argentina has always been focused on the entire Argentine people, and China-Argentina cooperation has likewise benefited all people. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Argentina, placing bilateral relations at an important juncture to build on the past and usher in the future. China values the traditional friendship between the peoples of the two countries, supports Argentina in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions through reform, and is willing to work with Argentina to promote the long-term stable development of the China-Argentina comprehensive strategic partnership to better support the development of both countries.” 习近平指出，中阿建交半个多世纪以来，双方坚持相互尊重、平等相待、互利共赢。中国对阿政策始终面向阿根廷全体人民，中阿合作也造福全体人民。今年是中阿建立全面战略伙伴关系10周年，两国关系处在承前启后、继往开来的重要节点。中方珍视两国人民传统友谊，支持阿方通过改革探索符合本国国情的发展道路，愿同阿方一道，推动中阿全面战略伙伴关系长期稳定发展，更好助力各自国家发展。
“Xi Jinping stressed that the current world situation is undergoing profound changes. China and Argentina should continue to firmly support each other on issues of core interests and major concerns, strengthen exchanges at all levels and in all fields, promote cultural exchanges and cooperation, and make China-Argentina friendship more deeply rooted in the hearts of the people. The economic and trade structures of China and Argentina are highly complementary, and the prospects for cooperation are broad. Argentina is welcome to seize the important opportunities brought by China’s high-level opening up to the outside world and further expand its market share in China. China is willing to continue to promote high-quality joint construction of the BRI with Argentina, and deepen cooperation in energy, mining, infrastructure, agriculture, scientific and technological innovation, digital economy and other fields. China is also willing to continue financial cooperation with Argentina to help Argentina maintain economic and financial stability.” 习近平强调，当前世界形势正在发生深刻变化，中阿双方应该继续坚定支持彼此核心利益和重大关切，密切各层级各领域交往，促进人文交流合作，使中阿友好更加深入人心。中阿经贸结构高度互补，合作前景广阔，欢迎阿方抓住中国高水平对外开放带来的重要机遇，进一步扩大在华市场份额。中方愿同阿方持续推进高质量共建“一带一路”，深化能源矿业、基础设施、农业、科技创新、数字经济等领域合作。中方也愿同阿方继续开展金融合作，助力阿方维护经济金融稳定.
As per the readout, Milei “thanked China for its valuable help in stabilising Argentina’s domestic economic and financial situation”. He added that “Argentina hopes to become a reliable and stable partner of China. Argentina firmly supports China’s position on the Taiwan issue and firmly adheres to the one-China principle. Argentina hopes to further strengthen cooperation with China in the fields of economy, trade, energy, minerals, finance; it welcomes more Chinese companies to invest and cooperate in Argentina, and is willing to provide a good business environment for companies investing in Argentina and protect the legitimate rights and interests of companies in accordance with the law. Argentina highly appreciates President Xi Jinping’s insightful propositions on global governance at the G20 Leaders’ Summit and is willing to strengthen communication and cooperation with China…” 米莱表示，非常高兴结识习近平主席。感谢中方为阿根廷稳定国内经济金融形势提供的宝贵帮助。阿中传统友谊深厚。阿根廷希望成为中国可靠和稳定的合作伙伴。阿方坚定支持中方在台湾问题上的立场，坚定恪守一个中国原则。阿方希望进一步密切同中国在经贸、能源矿产、金融等领域合作，欢迎更多中国企业赴阿投资合作，愿为在阿投资企业提供良好营商环境，依法保障企业的正当权益。阿方高度赞赏习近平主席在二十国集团领导人峰会上就全球治理阐述的精辟主张，愿同中方加强沟通协作。阿方支持进一步办好中拉论坛，愿为促进拉中关系发展发挥积极作用.
Xi is now in Brasilia, kicking off his state visit to Brazil.
Page 3: There are two reports of meetings by Wang Yi. First, Wang met with Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov. The Chinese readout says:
Wang said that “China and Russia should work with BRICS partners to implement the outcomes of the BRICS Kazan Summit, expand and strengthen the BRICS mechanism, enhance the influence of the Global South, and play a greater role in world multipolarization. China has taken over the presidency of the SCO and is willing to work closely with Russia to promote greater development of the SCO and move it to a new level. Next year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. China and Russia should jointly organise commemorative activities, firmly defend the results of the victory of the Second World War and international fairness and justice, learn from history and open up the future.” 王毅说，中俄要同金砖伙伴一道，落实好金砖喀山峰会成果，做大做强金砖机制，增强全球南方影响力，为世界多极化发挥更大作用。中国已接任上海合作组织主席国，愿同俄方密切配合，推动上合组织取得更大发展，迈上新的台阶。明年是世界反法西斯战争胜利80周年，中俄要共同办好纪念活动,坚定捍卫二战胜利成果和国际公平正义，以史为鉴、开辟未来.
Lavrov reportedly said that “Russia-China relations are at an unprecedented high level.” He added: “The UN is the most important achievement of the victory of the Second World War, and commemorating the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations is of great significance. The international community should take this opportunity to oppose the destruction of the post-war international order and jointly maintain global peace and stability.” 联合国是二战胜利最重要成果，纪念联合国成立80周年具有重要意义。国际社会应以此为契机，反对破坏战后国际秩序，共同维护全球和平稳定.
The readout said that they discussed the war in Ukraine, the situation on the Korean Peninsula and other issues.
Second, Wang met with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Before I detail the readouts, let me offer a brief analysis.
My Brief Takeaway: As you go through both the readouts, you will notice that there is remarkable divergence in just how the Chinese side has characterised Jaishankar’s position and what the MEA’s readout actually says. The differences in the readouts are indicative of how far the two sides are in terms of their interests and perceptions of each other, despite the patrolling rights deal that was agreed in October and the Modi-Xi meeting in Kazan. Here are four points to consider:
First, the Chinese readout essentially has Jaishankar agreeing with Beijing’s proposition that “specific differences”, i.e., the boundary tensions, should not define the relationship. In contrast, the Indian readout says that both ministers “recognized that the disengagement in our border areas had contributed to the maintenance of peace and tranquility”. In other words, the Chinese side also appreciated the Indian position that you cannot have a stable relationship if tensions persist on the boundary.
Second, the Chinese readout seems to indicate far greater common cause between India and China on global issues, while accepting that there are issues of attrition and suspicion between the two. The MEA’s readout, on the other hand, explicitly says that on global issues “India and China have both differences and convergences”. In particular, the Chinese readout talks about world multipolarity; the Indian readout also calls for a multipolar Asia.
Third, on specific actions, the Chinese readout calls for easing visa processes, exchanging journalists and resuming direct flights. It does not mention the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrimage and data sharing on trans-border rivers, which the MEA’s readout mentions.
Finally, the Chinese readout attributes this to Jaishankar “India also opposes unilateralism, does not approve of military alliances, advocates the democratisation of international relations, and is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China in multilateral mechanisms such as the G20 and BRICS”. The underlying message in this appears to be directed at the US. In contrast the MEA’s readout says that Jaishankar told Wang “where India is concerned, its foreign policy has been principled and consistent, marked by independent thought and action. We are against unilateral approaches to establish dominance. India does not view its relationships through the prism of other nations.” To me, the underlying message in this is directed at China and its assertive and aggressive policies.
The Chinese readout says:
Wang said that “the successful meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kazan not long ago and the restart of China-India relations are in line with the fundamental interests of the two peoples, the expectations of Global South countries and the right direction of history. The two sides should implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, respect each other’s core interests, enhance mutual trust through dialogue and communication, handle differences properly with sincerity and integrity, and bring the bilateral relationship back on the track of stable and sound development at an early date. The two sides should send more positive signals and engage in actions that facilitate bilateral exchanges, enhance mutual trust and reduce suspicion, and carry out more cooperation and reduce attrition. The two sides should strive to make practical progress in such issues as resuming direct flights, exchanging journalists and easing visa procedures as soon as possible. Next year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and India. The two sides should plan commemorative activities, and encourage exchanges and visits in various fields and at different levels to enhance understanding and mutual trust.” 王毅表示，习近平主席和莫迪总理前不久在喀山举行成功会见，中印关系重启再出发，这符合两国人民根本利益，符合全球南方国家的期待，也符合历史前进的正确方向。双方要落实好领导人重要共识，相互尊重彼此核心利益，通过对话沟通增进互信，秉持诚意诚信妥处分歧，推动两国关系早日重回稳定健康发展轨道。要多发出积极信号，多做有利于两国交往的事情；多增进互信，少一些猜忌；多开展合作，少一些消耗。争取尽快在恢复直航、互派记者、便利签证等方面取得实际进展。明年是中印建交75周年，双方要规划好纪念活动，鼓励各领域各层级交流互访，增进理解和互信.
“Wang said China and India, as two neighbouring major developing countries, have more common interests than differences, and they should view each other’s development as an opportunity and work together to achieve common development and rejuvenation, which will help safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries and contribute to global multipolarity. Both China and India adhere to a non-aligned foreign policy and multilateralism, and support the democratisation of international relations. The two countries should continue to strengthen coordination and cooperation in international affairs and further develop mechanisms such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.” 王毅指出，作为相邻的两个发展中大国，中印共同利益远远大于分歧，双方应把彼此发展视为机遇，携手实现共同发展振兴，这有利于维护发展中国家的正当权益，也有利于推动世界多极化进程。中印都奉行不结盟的外交政策，都坚持多边主义，支持国际关系民主化，要继续在国际事务中加强协调配合，推动金砖机制、上海合作组织取得更大发展.
The Chinese readout quotes Jaishankar as saying:
“During the BRICS Summit in Kazan, leaders of both countries reached a consensus on promoting the stable development of India-China relations. It is gratifying to see that both sides are taking measures to implement the consensus of the leaders and have made positive progress. The Indian side hopes to restart the relevant dialogue mechanism as soon as possible and maintain the momentum of improvement and development of bilateral relations through strengthened communication. The consensus between India and China far outweighs the differences. Both sides should view bilateral relations from a strategic perspective, properly handle relevant issues with a more positive attitude, and not let specific differences define the relationship between the two countries. The Indian side is willing to take the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries next year as an opportunity to push forward India-China relations. Both India and China play an important role in international affairs, which also reflects the potential of India-China cooperation. India also opposes unilateralism, does not approve of military alliances, advocates the democratisation of international relations, and is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China in multilateral mechanisms such as the G20 and BRICS.” 苏杰生表示，喀山金砖峰会期间，两国领导人就推动印中关系稳定发展达成共识。很高兴看到双方都在采取措施落实领导人共识并取得积极进展。印方希望尽快重启有关对话机制，通过加强沟通保持两国关系改善发展势头。印中之间共识远大于分歧，双方应以战略眼光看待双边关系，以更积极态度妥善处理有关问题，不让具体分歧定义两国关系。印方愿以明年两国建交75周年为契机，推动印中关系向前发展。印中都在国际事务中发挥重要作用，这也体现了印中合作的潜力。印方同样反对单边主义，不赞成军事同盟，主张国际关系实现民主化，愿同中方在二十国集团、金砖等多边机制中加强协调合作.
The Indian MEA’s readout of the meeting says:
“The Ministers recognized that the disengagement in our border areas had contributed to the maintenance of peace and tranquility. The discussions focused on the next steps in India-China relations. It was agreed that a meeting of the Special Representatives and of the Foreign Secretary-Vice Minister mechanism will take place soon. Among the steps discussed were the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrimage, data sharing on trans-border rivers, direct flights between India and China and media exchanges.”
“On the global situation and international issues, EAM noted that India and China have both differences and convergences. We have worked constructively in the BRICS and the SCO framework. Our cooperation in the G20 has also been evident. EAM said that we are strongly committed to a multipolar world, including a multipolar Asia. Where India is concerned, its foreign policy has been principled and consistent, marked by independent thought and action. We are against unilateral approaches to establish dominance. India does not view its relationships through the prism of other nations. FM Wang Yi concurred with EAM that India-China relations have particular salience in world politics. He noted that our leaders had agreed in Kazan on the way forward. The two Ministers felt that it was imperative that the focus should be on stabilizing ties, managing differences and taking the next steps.”
Next, there’s a Zhong Sheng commentary. It talks about the Xi-Biden meeting, saying that in the past four years, “overall stability has been achieved” in ties.
It says that:
“President Xi Jinping expounded on strategic, directional, and guiding opinions on the development of China-US relations, proposing that the two countries should respect each other, coexist peacefully, and cooperate for win-win results. He clearly outlined China’s four red lines regarding the Taiwan issue, democracy and human rights, the choice of path and system, and development rights. He suggested that both sides should jointly establish correct perceptions, effectively manage differences, advance mutually beneficial cooperation, shoulder great power responsibilities, and promote people-to-people exchanges, making the great edifice of China-US relations have not only a dome but also a foundation and pillars. To promote stable, healthy, and sustainable development of China-US relations, both sides need to add bricks and tiles to this great edifice of China-US relations.” 过去4年，中美关系虽然历经跌宕起伏，但在两国元首领航把舵下，开展了对话和合作，总体实现了稳定。习近平主席就中美关系发展阐明战略性、方向性、指导性意见，提出两国应该相互尊重、和平共处、合作共赢，明确中方在台湾问题、民主人权、道路制度、发展权利上的4条红线，建议双方共同树立正确认知、有效管控分歧、推进互利合作、承担大国责任、促进人文交流，让中美关系这座大厦既有穹顶，又有基座和支柱。推动中美关系稳定、健康、可持续发展，需要双方共同为中美关系这座大厦添砖加瓦.
“Strategic perception is the fundamental and overarching issue in Sino-US relations. The ‘Thucydides Trap’ is not a historical destiny, and a ‘new Cold War’ cannot be fought or won. Containment of China is unwise, undesirable, and will not succeed. If the two countries are partners and seek common ground while reserving differences, Sino-US relations will be able to achieve substantial development. If the other side is regarded as an opponent and vicious competition is carried out, Sino-US relations will encounter setbacks or even regress. In the interaction between these two major powers, neither side can reshape the other according to their own wishes, nor can they suppress the other based on so-called ‘position of strength’, let alone deprive the other of legitimate development rights to maintain their own leading position. China and the US are two major powers, and some contradictions and differences are inevitable, but they cannot harm each other’s core interests, much less engage in conflict and confrontation. The One China principle and the three China-US Joint Communiques are the political foundation of bilateral relations and must be strictly observed.” 战略认知是中美关系中根本的、管总的问题。“修昔底德陷阱”不是历史的宿命，“新冷战”打不得也打不赢，对华遏制不明智、不可取，更不会得逞。如果两国做伙伴，求同存异，中美关系就能够取得长足发展。如果把对方当对手，恶性竞争，中美关系就会遭遇波折甚至倒退。中美两个大国交往，任何一方都不能按照自己的意愿改造对方，也不能从所谓“实力地位”出发压制对方，更不能为保持本国的领先地位而剥夺对方正当发展权利。中美是两个大国，难免有些矛盾分歧，但不能损害彼此核心利益，更不能搞冲突对抗。一个中国原则和中美三个联合公报是双边关系的政治基础，必须恪守.
“The interests of China and the United States are deeply intertwined, and the space for cooperation is infinite. In terms of economic ties, the trade volume between China and the United States exceeds $660 billion. More than 70,000 American companies in China have an annual profit of $50 billion; in terms of employment, exports to China alone support 930,000 jobs in the United States, and Chinese investment has also boosted American employment; in terms of people’s livelihood, Chinese products have not only enriched the choices of American consumers, but also reduced the cost of living. McDonald’s new stores in China in the past year accounted for about 60% of global presence. Tesla’s Shanghai Super Factory delivered electric vehicles accounting for half of its global production capacity last year. And Starbucks has more than 1,000 stores in Shanghai alone...The story of mutually beneficial cooperation between China and the United States fully shows that under the current situation, the common interests of China and the United States have not decreased, but rather increased. China and the United States should always focus on the well-being of the people of the two countries, continuously extend the list of cooperation, expand the pie of cooperation, and achieve win-win cooperation.” 中美利益深度交融，合作空间无限广阔。算经济账，中美贸易额超过6600亿美元，7万多家在华美企年利润达500亿美元；算就业账，仅对华出口就支撑美国93万个就业岗位，中国投资也拉动了美国就业；算民生账，中国商品不仅丰富了美国消费者选择，还降低了生活成本。麦当劳过去一年在华新增门店占全球约六成，特斯拉上海超级工厂去年交付占其全球产能一半的电动汽车，星巴克仅在上海就有1000多家门店……中美互利合作的故事充分说明，在当前形势下，中美两国共同利益不是减少了，而是更多了。中美双方应该始终着眼两国人民福祉，不断拉长合作清单，做大合作蛋糕，实现合作共赢.
The next paragraph talks about global turbulence and then outlines this vision for bilateral ties. In essence, this is a call for a G2-style relationship.
“China and the US should take into account the interests of the world, constantly consider the future destiny of humanity, take responsibility for world peace, provide public goods for the global community, and play a positive role in world unity. Major power competition should not be the underlying theme of the era; only unity and cooperation can overcome difficulties together. ‘Decoupling and breaking chains’ is not the solution; only mutually beneficial cooperation can lead to joint development. ‘Small yards with high walls’ are not behaviours befitting of major powers; only openness and sharing can benefit humanity. Only by demonstrating the pattern of major powers, shouldering the responsibilities of major powers, and playing the role of major powers can we be responsible to history, to the people, and to the world, and only then can we win the world’s respect.”中美双方应该计天下利，时刻考量人类前途命运，为世界和平担当，为全球提供公共产品，为世界团结发挥积极作用。大国竞争不应是时代底色，团结协作才能共克时艰。“脱钩断链”不是解决之道，互利合作才能共同发展。“小院高墙”不是大国作为，开放共享才能造福人类。只有展现大国格局、拿出大国担当、发挥大国作用，才是对历史、对人民、对世界负责，才能赢得世界尊重.
The next bit reiterates Xi’s framing of the “four unchanged” 四个没有变, i.e.,
China’s goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged.
Its commitment to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation as principles for handling China-U.S. relations remains unchanged.
Its position of resolutely safeguarding China’s sovereignty, security and development interests remains unchanged.
And its desire to carry forward the traditional friendship between the Chinese and American peoples remains unchanged.
It then says:
“To achieve a smooth transition in China-US relations, both sides need to uphold the already agreed-upon guiding principles, i.e., mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, maintaining communication, preventing conflict, adhering to the UN Charter, cooperating in areas of common interest, and responsibly managing competitive elements in bilateral relations. At present, China-US relations once again stand at a crossroads. The people of both countries have expectations for the stable development of China-US relations, and the international community also has expectations for the stable development of China-US relations. It is hoped that the US side will meet China halfway, continue to explore the correct way for two major powers to get along, achieve long-term peaceful coexistence between China and the US on this planet, and inject more certainty and provide positive energy for the world.” 让中美关系实现平稳过渡，需要双方秉持已经达成的指导原则，即相互尊重、和平共处、保持沟通、防止冲突、恪守《联合国宪章》，在有共同利益的领域开展合作，负责任管控双边关系中的竞争因素。当前，中美关系又一次站在十字路口。两国人民对中美关系稳定发展有期待，国际社会对中美关系稳定发展也有期待。希望美方同中方相向而行，继续探寻两个大国正确相处之道，实现中美两国在这个星球上长期和平共存，多为世界注入确定性、提供正能量.
Finally, there’s a brief report talking about Bimala Ghimire, Vice Chair of the National Assembly of Nepal, meeting with Bagatur, who is the Vice Chairperson of the CPPCC. Ghimire has been in China for a few days. He earlier attended the Second Global South Think Tanks Dialogue. This dialogue led to the establishment of the Global South Think Tanks Alliance last week.
Page 4: There’s a report on He Lifeng attending the Global Financial Leaders’ Investment Summit in Hong Kong. He said that “with the strong support of the central government, effective leadership of the HKSAR Government, and joint efforts from all sectors of Hong Kong society, the city has achieved new accomplishments in economic and social development, and its financial system remains vibrant.” 在中央大力关心支持、特区政府有力带领和香港社会各界共同努力下，香港经济社会发展取得新的成就，金融体系保持充沛活力.
He added that “building, consolidating, and developing Hong Kong as an international financial center is not only essential for Hong Kong but also of great importance to the country. The central government has always positioned the development of Hong Kong as an international financial center from a strategic and overall perspective. It will continue to improve the policy system that supports the construction of Hong Kong as an international financial center and will, as always, provide full support and protection for Hong Kong’s financial reform and development, as well as the maintenance of financial stability and security.” 何立峰强调，把香港国际金融中心建设好、巩固好、发展好，既是香港所需，也是国家所重。中央始终从战略全局的高度，对香港国际金融中心发展进行定位，将持续完善支持香港国际金融中心建设的政策体系，一如既往、全力以赴为香港深化金融改革发展、维护金融稳定安全提供充分支持和保障.
He then talked about China’s reform agenda and said: “The long-term positive trend of China’s economic development has not changed and will not change. A strong country means a strong Hong Kong; a strong Hong Kong will make the country even better. It is hoped that Hong Kong will seize the historic opportunities brought by the country’s reform and development, continuously deepen financial reform and innovation, expand financial openness and cooperation, actively align with national development strategies, safeguard financial security, and continue to write a brilliant chapter of ‘one country, two systems’ in the new journey.” 何立峰指出，中国共产党二十届三中全会擘画了进一步全面深化改革、推进中国式现代化的宏伟蓝图。无论外部风云如何变幻，我们都将始终坚持集中精力办好自己的事情，中国经济发展长期向好的大趋势没有变也不会改变。国家好，香港一定好；香港好，国家会更好。希望香港紧紧抓住国家改革发展带来的历史性机遇，不断深化金融改革创新，深度拓展金融开放合作，积极对接国家发展战略，持续守护好金融安全，在新征程上不断谱写“一国两制”实践精彩华章.
Also on the page is a Jin Sheping article, which uses two data points to make the case for economic strength. First, the fact that China’s NEV production hit 10 million this year. Second, there have been a total of 100,000 China-Europe freight trains this year, with 7 trains going and 6 trains returning per week. More than 11 million standard containers of goods have been shipped with a value of more than $420 billion.
Note this bit:
Economic globalisation is an unstoppable historical tide. Although it is facing headwinds and setbacks, this overall trend has never changed and will not change. At 6:00 p.m. on October 11, the 3 millionth vehicle rolled off the production line at Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory. In the first three quarters of this year, the Shanghai Gigafactory has delivered 676,000 vehicles, accounting for more than half of Tesla’s global deliveries in the same period, becoming the ‘capacity pillar’ for Tesla. Of these 3 million vehicles, one-third were exported to Europe and Asia-Pacific markets. The localization rate of parts at the Shanghai Gigafactory exceeds 95%, and Tesla has signed over 400 local first-tier suppliers, with more than 60 suppliers entering Tesla’s global supply chain system. Tesla’s development in China is a fruit of economic globalization and a strong proof of ‘harmony and coexistence’.
Not just Tesla. In April, Mercedes-Benz announced the upgrade of its Shanghai R&D center, further accelerating innovation in China; Volkswagen Group (China) announced a 2.5 billion euro investment to expand its production and innovation center in Hefei; BMW’s Shenyang production base has invested nearly 100 billion yuan since 2010... China’s creation of complete industrial chains, efficient market mechanisms, and healthy industrial competition ecology has attracted global capital to invest and develop business. As the economy becomes increasingly globalised, the interdependence between countries further deepens. Research and development, production, circulation, and consumption are interlinked; no country can achieve full lifecycle management of industrial and supply chains on its own.
‘I exist in you, you exist in me’, the cooperation pattern becomes more solid. Unilateralism and protectionism offer no way forward, and ‘small yards with high walls’ will only trap oneself. For some time, certain people in the US and the West have exaggerated the so-called ‘Chinese new energy overcapacity theory’, which in essence is a ‘development anxiety theory’ and a ‘zero-sum game theory’, which harms others and benefits no one…Facts show that the development of China’s new energy industry is a contribution and opportunity to the world. Coming from the depths of history, every Chinese understands what isolation will bring to us and the world. China is a beneficiary of economic globalisation and a firm promoter, because we understand that ‘when the world is good, China will be good; when China is good, the world will be even better’.” 其一，经济全球化是发展大势。经济全球化是浩浩荡荡的历史潮流，虽然遭遇逆风和回头浪，但其发展大势从未改变，也不会改变。10月11日晚6点，特斯拉上海超级工厂第300万辆整车正式下线。今年前三季度，上海超级工厂交付车辆67.6万辆，占特斯拉全球前三季度交付半数以上，成为其“产能担当”。这300万辆整车中，1/3远销欧洲、亚太市场。上海超级工厂零部件本土化率超过95%，特斯拉签约的本土一级供应商超过400家，其中60多家供应商进入特斯拉全球供应链体系。特斯拉在中国的发展，是经济全球化的硕果，也是“和合共生”的力证。不只特斯拉。4月，梅赛德斯—奔驰宣布其上海研发中心再升级，进一步提速在华智能化创新；大众汽车集团（中国）宣布，投资25亿欧元拓展位于合肥的生产及创新中心；宝马沈阳生产基地自2010年以来累计投资近1000亿元……中国打造完整的产业链条、高效的市场机制、良性的产业竞争生态，吸引了全球资本前来投资兴业。经济日益全球化，国与国之间相互依赖程度进一步加深。研发、生产、流通、消费，环环相扣，任何一国都难凭一己之力实现产业链供应链全生命周期管理。“我中有你、你中有我”，合作格局更加稳固。单边主义、保护主义没有出路，“小院高墙”只会困住自己。一段时间以来，美西方一些人大肆炒作所谓“中国新能源产能过剩论”，实质上是“发展焦虑论”“零和博弈论”，损人不利己。仍以中国的新能源汽车为例。比亚迪ATTO3车型被英国新闻公司评选为英国2023年度最佳电动汽车，吉利几何E车型深受卢旺达消费者喜爱，长城哈弗H6新能源车型荣获巴西年度最佳动力奖项……西班牙媒体报道说，几乎一半的西班牙人会考虑购买中国汽车作为他们的下一辆汽车。事实表明，中国新能源产业的发展，对世界是贡献和机遇。从历史深处走来，每个中国人都明白，封闭会给我们、给世界带来什么。中国是经济全球化的受益者，更是坚定的推动者，因为我们懂得“世界好，中国才会好；中国好，世界会更好”.
The rest of the piece says that China will continue to reform and open up and that China’s reform and opening up are opportunities for the world.
Page 6: There’s a report on the publication of the Annual Report on Human Rights report (2024) by the China Society for Human Rights Studies. You can read this English report, if interested.
Another report on the page talks about the successful trial of large-scale trial transportation of lithium batteries via trains. A related English report informs:
“China Railway has conducted its first large-scale trial transportation of lithium batteries for electric vehicles (EVs). On Tuesday, three trains loaded with lithium batteries departed from Chongqing Municipality, Sichuan Province and Guizhou Province, all of which are located in southwest China. For China, the world’s largest producer of lithium batteries, this is a major step forward in the transportation of these vehicle batteries, which are listed as dangerous goods and were previously transported only by sea or road. The transport of lithium batteries is risky as they may burn or explode if jolted. ‘For the trial run, we are using a new type of container designed solely for the transport of lithium batteries. The containers are made of non-combustible materials and equipped with smoke and temperature detectors and venting devices,’ said Jia Ping, deputy general manager of China Railway Chengdu Group Co., Ltd. Rail transport will facilitate the export of Chinese lithium batteries as it has a larger capacity than road transport and is faster than sea transport, Jia said.”