Xi on Taiwan, Technology & Environment - Top Leadership Meets Political Advisors - Li Hui's Ukraine War Shuttle Diplomacy - Breakdown of Wang Yi's Press Conference
Here are the key reports and articles that I found noteworthy from the People's Daily’s edition on Thursday, March 07, 2024.
Page 1: The lead story (English report) today is on Xi Jinping participating in a joint group meeting during the second session of the CPPCC NC. Wang Huning and Cai Qi were present with Xi.
Xinhua informs that the meeting was attended by political advisors from the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang (RCCK), the sector of science and technology, and the sector of environment and resources. Xi said that everyone must “focus on the major strategic tasks put forward by the 20th Party Congress and at the CEWC.”
“At the joint committee meeting, six members, including Xia Xianpeng, Tian Hongqi, Wu Jianping, Zhao Yuliang, Huang Miansong, and Hu Songqin, spoke on topics such as:
strengthening cross-strait industrial and supply chain cooperation
resolutely advancing the complete reunification of the motherland
using core Internet technology to support the construction of a strong cyber nation and high-quality development
promoting the industrialization of scientific and technological innovation achievements
advancing high-quality development in the ecological and environmental protection industry
strengthening the governance of new pollutants.” 联组会上，夏先鹏、田红旗、吴建平、赵宇亮、黄绵松、胡松琴等6位委员，围绕加强两岸产业链供应链合作、坚定不移推进祖国完全统一、以互联网核心技术支撑网络强国建设和高质量发展、推进科技创新成果产业化、推进生态环保产业高质量发展、加强新污染物治理等作了发言。
After this, Xi spoke. He credited the political advisors for having contributed to the “hard-earned achievement” of the country meeting its 2023 goals. He then said that:
The RCCK should further “identify its correct position, leverage its strengths, and actively contribute to the overall work on Taiwan; better to unite all patriots from home and abroad, in and out of Taiwan to step up opposition against ‘Taiwan independence,’ expand support for national reunification, and jointly advance the peaceful reunification of China. We should actively promote cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation in science and technology, agriculture, culture, youth development and other fields, and deepen cross-Strait integrated development in various fields.” 习近平强调，民革要在对台工作大局中进一步找准定位、发挥优势、积极作为，更好团结海内外、岛内外一切可以团结的爱国力量，不断壮大反“独”促统力量，共同推进祖国和平统一进程。要积极推动两岸科技、农业、人文、青年发展等领域交流合作，深化两岸各领域融合发展.
“Members of the scientific and technological community and the scientific and technological workers should further enhance their ambition to rejuvenate the country through science and education, shoulder the important task of scientific and technological innovation, strengthen basic research and applied basic research, struggle for key core technologies, and create new drivers for developing new quality productive forces. It is necessary to provide pragmatic advice and suggestions to help deepen the reform of the science and technology system and the reform of the talent development system and mechanism, improve the science and technology evaluation system and incentive mechanism, and further stimulate the innovation vitality and potential of all types of talents.” 习近平指出，科技界委员和广大科技工作者要进一步增强科教兴国强国的抱负，担当起科技创新的重任，加强基础研究和应用基础研究，打好关键核心技术攻坚战，培育发展新质生产力的新动能。要务实建言献策，助力深化科技体制改革和人才发展体制机制改革，健全科技评价体系和激励机制，进一步激发各类人才创新活力和潜力.
Political advisors from the sector of environment and resources must make new contributions in strengthening ecological and environmental protection and supporting high-quality development with high-level protection. It is necessary to firmly guard the bottom line of land space development and protection, improve the system of ecological environment zoning and control, and strengthen the ecological foundation for high-quality development. Fully and accurately implement the guidelines of targeted, science-based and lawful pollution control, promote green and low-carbon economic and social development, strengthen resource conservation and intensive recycling, expand the path to realize the value of ecological products, and promote carbon emission peaking and carbon neutrality in an active and prudent manner. 习近平强调，广大环境资源界委员要在加强生态环境保护、以高水平保护支撑高质量发展上作出新贡献。要守牢国土空间开发保护底线，完善生态环境分区管控体系，夯实高质量发展的生态基础。全面准确落实精准治污、科学治污、依法治污方针，推动经济社会发展绿色化、低碳化，加强资源节约集约循环利用，拓展生态产品价值实现路径，积极稳妥推进碳达峰碳中和，为高质量发展注入新动能、塑造新优势.
There’s a ZhongYin commentary on Page 2, discussing Xi’s comments.
Next, there’s a consolidated report on other senior leaders attending deliberations. Li Qiang attended the Guangdong deliberation. Li said that over the past year,
“Guangdong and other major economic provinces have taken the lead and made important contributions to the overall development of the country. It is hoped that Guangdong will thoroughly implement the spirit of General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important instructions on Guangdong work, strengthen its sense of mission, actively seize the commanding heights of the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, deepen reform and opening up with greater determination and intensity, strive to promote the coordinated development of urban and rural areas, continuously improve people's livelihood and well-being, achieve greater success in advancing high-quality development, and strive to take a leading position in promoting the construction of a Chinese-style modernization.” 广东等经济大省勇挑大梁，为全国发展大局作出了重要贡献。希望广东深入贯彻习近平总书记关于广东工作的重要指示精神，强化使命担当，积极抢占新一轮科技革命和产业变革制高点，以更大决心和力度深化改革开放，着力促进城乡区域协调发展，不断增进民生福祉，推动高质量发展取得更大成效，努力在推进中国式现代化建设中走在前列.
Later Li met with political advisors from the sectors of economics and agriculture. Li said that this year, China’s “development is still faced with many unstable, uncertain, and unpredictable factors. It will take hard work to achieve the goals and tasks for the whole year.
It is necessary to continue to implement proactive fiscal policies and prudent monetary policies, further strengthen innovation and coordination of policy tools, and implement a good policy mix to better stimulate domestic demand potential and smooth the economic cycle.
It is necessary to vigorously shape new dynamics and advantages in economic development, strengthen innovation-driven growth, accelerate transformation and upgrading, focus on addressing weaknesses, extending advantages, and forging new strengths, thereby enhancing the resilience and competitiveness of industrial chains and supply chains.
It is necessary to persist in laying a solid foundation for agriculture, vigorously promote the construction of high-standard farmland, steadily improve comprehensive agricultural production capabilities, strengthen the stable production and supply of grain and important agricultural products, and firmly hold the rice bowl in our hands.
It is necessary to organically combine the promotion of new urbanization with the overall revitalization of rural areas, accelerate the urbanization of agricultural migrant workers, optimize the layout of village construction according to local conditions, allow willing migrant workers to settle in cities, and make the lives of farmers who stay in rural areas better.
今年我国发展面临的不稳定、不确定、难预料因素仍然较多，完成全年目标任务，需要付出艰苦努力。要继续实施积极的财政政策和稳健的货币政策，进一步加强政策工具创新和协调配合，打好政策组合拳，更好激发国内需求潜力、畅通经济循环。要大力塑造经济发展新动能新优势，强化创新驱动，加快转型升级，下大力气补齐短板、拉长长板、锻造新板，增强产业链供应链韧性和竞争力。要坚持不懈夯实农业基础，大力推进高标准农田建设，稳步提升农业综合生产能力，加强粮食和重要农产品稳产保供，把饭碗牢牢端在自己手上。要把推进新型城镇化和乡村全面振兴有机结合起来，加快农业转移人口市民化，因地制宜优化村庄建设布局，让有意愿的进城农民工在城镇落户，让留在农村的农民生活越来越好.
Zhao Leji, meanwhile, met with political advisors from the China Democratic League and the Chinese Peasants and Workers Democratic Party. He told them that:
Practice has once again proved that the Two Establishments are the greatest certainty to overcome all difficulties and obstacles and cope with all uncertainties, and that the CPC is the most reliable backbone of the Chinese people when storms strike.” He further called on them to “thoroughly study and implement Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and the spirit of the 20th Party Congress. In the process of China's modernization, they must identify the right position, clarify the direction, strengthen confidence in development, actively participate in political affairs, unite widely, and better leverage the distinctive characteristics and advantages of their own sector.” 实践再次证明，“两个确立”是战胜一切艰难险阻、应对一切不确定性的最大确定性，中国共产党是风雨来袭时中国人民最可靠的主心骨。赵乐际指出，民盟、农工党深入调查研究，积极建言献策，为推动经济社会发展贡献了智慧和力量。希望深入学习贯彻习近平新时代中国特色社会主义思想和中共二十大精神，在中国式现代化进程中找准定位、明确方向，坚定发展信心，积极参政履职，广泛凝心聚力，更好发挥自身界别特色和优势.
He then added that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the CPPCC. “All democratic parties must not forget their original intention of multi-party cooperation, unswervingly follow the path of socialist political development with Chinese characteristics, and uphold, develop and improve China's new political party system. It is essential to uphold the leadership of the Communist Party of China and always maintain the political nature of working together with one heart and one mind.” 赵乐际指出，今年是中国人民政治协商会议成立75周年。各民主党派要不忘多党合作初心，坚定不移走中国特色社会主义政治发展道路，坚持好、发展好、完善好中国新型政党制度。要坚持中国共产党领导，始终保持同心同德、团结奋斗的政治本色.
Wang Huning met political advisors representing ethnic minorities. He told them that:
“It is necessary to deeply understand the decisive significance of the Two Establishments, strengthen the four consciousnesses and four self-confidences, achieve the Two Safeguards, and unswervingly follow the correct path of addressing ethnic issues with Chinese characteristics. It is necessary to thoroughly study and implement General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important thoughts on strengthening and improving ethnic work, firmly grasp that building a consciousness of the Chinese national community is the main line of the Party’s ethnic work in the new era and the main line of all work in ethnic areas and tangibly and effectively carry out the construction of a shared spiritual home for the Chinese nation. Promote extensive interaction, communication, and integration among all ethnic groups, and guide people of all ethnic groups to enhance their sense of identification with the great motherland, the Chinese nation, Chinese culture, the Communist Party of China, and socialism with Chinese characteristics. 要深刻领悟“两个确立”的决定性意义，增强“四个意识”、坚定“四个自信”、做到“两个维护”，坚定不移走中国特色解决民族问题的正确道路。要深入学习贯彻习近平总书记关于加强和改进民族工作的重要思想，牢牢把握铸牢中华民族共同体意识是新时代党的民族工作的主线和民族地区各项工作的主线，有形有感有效做好构筑中华民族共有精神家园工作，促进各民族广泛交往交流交融，引导各族群众增进对伟大祖国、中华民族、中华文化、中国共产党、中国特色社会主义的认同.
Cai Qi participated in a joint group meeting of political advisors from the sectors of literature and arts and sports. He told them that considering the events of the past year:
“Practice has proved that with General Secretary Xi Jinping at the helm and with the scientific guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, we will be able to overcome any risks and challenges and move ahead firmly. He hoped that everyone will deeply understand the decisive significance of Two Establishments, achieve Two Safeguards, deeply study and implement Xi Jinping Thought on Culture, and better shoulder the new cultural mission.” 实践证明，有习近平总书记领航掌舵，有习近平新时代中国特色社会主义思想科学指引，就一定能战胜任何风险挑战坚定向前进。蔡奇希望大家深刻领悟“两个确立”的决定性意义，做到“两个维护”，深入学习贯彻习近平文化思想，更好担负起新的文化使命.
He called on them to “make new contributions to building a cultural and sports power”, “widely practice the core socialist values, adhere to the people-centered creative orientation, bravely climb the ‘peak’ of culture, art and sports, launch more cultural products, and improve the overall strength of sports. It is necessary to continuously enrich the spiritual and cultural life of the people, promote the in-depth integrated development of culture and tourism, strengthen the protection, inheritance and utilization of cultural heritage, implement cultural projects to benefit the people, and carry out extensive national fitness activities. Culture, art and sports workers must endure solitude, sharpen their professionalism, prioritize social benefits, actively expand international cultural and sports exchanges, and tell the story of China well.” 要发挥界别优势，紧紧围绕推进中国式现代化献计出力，为建设文化强国、体育强国作出新的贡献。要广泛践行社会主义核心价值观，坚守以人民为中心的创作导向，勇攀文化艺术和体育“高峰”，推出更多文化精品，提高体育综合实力。要不断丰富人民群众精神文化生活，推进文旅深度融合发展，加强文化遗产保护传承利用，实施好文化惠民工程，广泛开展全民健身活动。文化艺术和体育工作者要耐得住寂寞，砥砺专业、提升造诣，把社会效益放在首位。要积极拓展国际人文体育交流，讲好中国故事.
Ding Xuexiang attended a meeting of political advisors from special administrative regions (SARs) of Hong Kong and Macao. He said that over the past year, “the development of Hong Kong and Macao has created a new situation and shown a new atmosphere. The economy has ushered in an overall recovery, people’s livelihood and well-being have been significantly improved, and significant progress has been made in the comprehensive implementation of the principle of ‘patriots governing Hong Kong’ and ‘patriots governing Macao’, with new breakthroughs achieved in safeguarding national security.” 在中央的大力支持下，在特区行政长官和特区政府带领下，香港、澳门发展开创了新局面、展现了新气象，经济迎来整体性复苏，民生福祉得到明显改善，全面落实“爱国者治港”、“爱国者治澳”取得重大进展，维护国家安全实现新突破.
He added that the central leadership adheres to principles of ‘one country, two systems, ‘Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong’ and ‘Macao people governing Macao’. “It is necessary to build a strong barrier to safeguard national security, support Hong Kong in completing the legislation of Article 23 of the Basic Law as soon as possible, improve Macao's institutional mechanism for safeguarding national security, and ensure the steady and long-term implementation of ‘one country, two systems’.” 要筑牢维护国家安全屏障，支持香港尽快完成基本法第23条立法，健全澳门维护国家安全制度机制，确保“一国两制”实践行稳致远.
Finally, Li Xi met with political advisors from the Jiu San Society and the group of personages without party affiliation. Li praised Xi and reiterated the importance of Two Establishments and Two Safeguards. He called on them to “actively offer advice and suggestions around the central work of the Party and the country, strengthen ideological and political guidance, do more work to dispel doubts, guide expectations, boost confidence, and build consensus, jointly sing the bright song of China’s economy, and comprehensively promote the construction of a strong country with Chinese-style modernization…” 希望各位委员毫不动摇坚持中国共产党领导，坚定拥护“两个确立”，坚决做到“两个维护”，围绕党和国家中心工作积极建言献策，加强思想政治引领，多做解疑释惑、引导预期、提振信心、凝聚共识的工作，共同唱响中国经济光明论，为以中国式现代化全面推进强国建设、民族复兴伟业而团结奋斗. He also talked about “winning the tough and protracted battle against corruption”.
Page 3: There’s a report on Wang Yi attending a meeting of the Guangxi delegation. He said that:
“In the past year, the Party and the country have made great achievements in the development of their cause. These achievements are extremely hard-won and they are fundamentally a product of the leadership of General Secretary Xi Jinping at the helm and in the scientific guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. The diplomatic and foreign affairs front will firmly support the Two Establishments and resolutely achieve the Two Safeguards to create a more favourable international environment and provide more solid strategic support for the great cause of building a strong country and national rejuvenation. We will continue to follow the spirit of General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important instructions on Guangxi’s work and increase services and support for Guangxi’s foreign affairs work.” 过去一年，党和国家事业发展取得了巨大成就，来之极为不易。这些成绩的取得，根本在于习近平总书记领航掌舵，在于习近平新时代中国特色社会主义思想的科学指引。外交外事战线将坚定拥护“两个确立”，坚决做到“两个维护”，为强国建设和民族复兴伟业营造更有利国际环境、提供更坚实战略支撑。我们将继续按照习近平总书记对广西工作重要指示精神，加大对广西外事工作的服务和支持.
The report also says that Peng Qinghua attended the deliberation of the Sichuan delegation. He, too, praised Xi.
“Looking at the sharp contrast between ‘governance of China’s rule’ and ‘global chaos’, we gain a more profound understanding of the decisive significance of the Two Establishments, the need to more consciously strengthen the four consciousnesses and four self-confidences and achieve the Two Safeguards.” 在“中国之治”与“世界之乱”的鲜明对照中，我们更加深刻地领悟到“两个确立”的决定性意义，更加自觉地增强“四个意识”、坚定“四个自信”、做到“两个维护”.
Another report on the page talks about Liu Zhenli and Zhang Shengmin’s comments during group discussions. Liu talks about military governance. He called to “deeply promote political rectification, correct work style and fight corruption, and resolutely complete various tasks assigned by the Party Central Committee, the Central Military Commission and Chairman Xi.” 要结合实际抓好大会精神贯彻落实，深入贯彻习近平强军思想，全面深入贯彻军委主席负责制，锚定建军一百年奋斗目标，全力以赴打好攻坚战，坚定灵活开展军事斗争，扭住关键加强军事治理，深入推进政治整训、正风反腐，坚决完成党中央、中央军委和习主席赋予的各项任务，坚决捍卫国家主权、安全、发展利益.
Zhang, meanwhile, stressed the importance of “resolutely winning the protracted battle against corruption”.
That’s about all that’s useful in the paper today. But let me cover below Li Hui’s shuttle diplomacy around the Ukraine war.
II. Li Hui’s Shuttle Diplomacy:
First, on March 2, Li Hui visited Russia. There, he met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Galuzin Mikhail Yuryevich. The Chinese readout says that the two “had an in-depth exchange of views on China-Russia relations and the Ukraine crisis.”
The readout adds: “Li Hui said that it has been two years since the full escalation of the Ukraine crisis. Historical experience shows that any conflict in the end has to be settled through negotiations. The more acute the conflict is, the more important it is not to give up efforts for dialogue. China is ready to continue its efforts to promote talks for peace, carry out shuttle diplomacy, mediate and build consensus among Russia, Ukraine, and other relevant parties, and promote a final political settlement of the Ukraine crisis. Galuzin agreed that the Ukraine crisis should ultimately be resolved through negotiations, and appreciated China's unique and constructive role in this regard. He spoke highly of China's second round of shuttle diplomacy and expressed the hope to continue to strengthen communication with China.”
Second, Li traveled to Brussels, where he held talks with “Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific Niclas Kvarnström and Managing Director for Russia, Eastern Partnership, Central Asia, Regional Cooperation and OSCE Michael Siebert at the European External Action Service.” The readout adds:
“They had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on the crisis situation in Ukraine and the peace talks. Head of the Chinese Mission to the European Union (EU) Ambassador Fu Cong and Minister Zhu Jing attended the meeting. Li Hui also said that China firmly opposes the EU's inclusion of Chinese enterprises in the latest list of sanctions against Russia, urging the EU to unconditionally cancel the listing of Chinese enterprises and return to the right track of dialogue and consultation with China.”
Third, he also met with Chief Foreign Policy Advisor to the President of the European Council Simon Mordue. The Chinese readout says:
“The two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on the crisis situation in Ukraine, the peace talks and other issues of mutual interest and concern. Head of the Chinese Mission to the European Union (EU) Ambassador Fu Cong was present. Li Hui once again expressed to the European side China's stern position of firmly opposing the EU's unilateral sanctions and ‘long-arm jurisdiction’ against Chinese enterprises.”
Fourth, in Brussels, Li also held talks with the Head of the International Security Division at the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Gabriel Luechinger. The readout says:
“Li Hui appreciated Switzerland's efforts to promote the peace talks and briefed the Swiss side on the previous communication with relevant countries, saying that the Chinese side will continue to travel intensively to mediate and build consensus among relevant parties and work with the Swiss side and the international community to promote an early ceasefire and end the fighting. On behalf of the Swiss government, Gabriel Luechinger extended sincere gratitude to China for its unremitting efforts to promote peace talks, appreciated the series of positive proposals put forward by the Chinese side, and expressed willingness to continue to strengthen communication with the Chinese side to pave the way for peace.”
While on this, do check out Finbarr Bermingham’s report in SCMP. He writes that:
“European Union officials have clashed with the Chinese special envoy for Ukraine during talks in Brussels, indicating a wide gulf remains between the two sides about the war, now in its third year. In a series of meetings on Monday and Tuesday, EU representatives were treated to a ‘full dose of Moscow’s talking points’ from Li Hui, Beijing’s special envoy to Eurasia, according to several people familiar with the talks…China claims to be neutral in the conflict, but is seen by the US and its European allies to have sided with Russia. Over a long dinner meeting on Monday night followed by discussions on Tuesday, these suspicions were, in the minds of multiple EU sources, confirmed. Li was seen mainly to have echoed the Kremlin’s points of view, telling EU officials that no discussion on Ukraine’s territorial integrity would take place until the violence stops – which, he said, could only happen when the EU stops sending weapons to Ukraine. He told the EU to stop sanctioning Chinese companies, because they may be needed for Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction. Last month, three Chinese trading companies were blacklisted by Brussels for allegedly funnelling goods made in Europe to the Russian military…According to the sources, Li told EU officials that the Russian economy was thriving and that Putin was riding high in opinion polls. Punching back, one member of the European side told Li that if you ‘murder all the opposition, your ratings would also be high’, referring to the recent death of Alexei Navalny. The Europeans warned that, despite headwinds, the bloc’s support for Ukraine would be unwavering, and that China’s backing of Russia’s talking points would continue to be ruinous for bilateral relations. People involved said that Li’s positions had not changed since his last European tour in May 2023, when he brought China’s 12-point proposal for ending the war to the same capitals. In this regard, there is a residual feeling among Brussels sources that the tour is a way of ‘de-risking China’s relationship with Russia’ – by being seen to engage with Ukraine and its allies – rather than an effort to end the conflict.” — (Comment: I do not understand why anyone believes the Chinese argument of neutrality or that Beijing is interested in ending the conflict.)
While on China-Russia ties, towards the end of February, Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong, upon invitation, held consultations with Russian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Rudenko Andrey Yurevich on China-Russia relations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and Asia-Pacific affairs. He also met with Sergei Lavrov. The Chinese readout then had said:
“Sun Weidong said that under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin, the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era has enjoyed sound, stable and in-depth development, and bilateral relations are at their best in history. The two sides should take the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of China-Russia diplomatic relations as a new starting point, intensify high-level exchanges, continue to strengthen political and strategic mutual trust, enhance comprehensive strategic coordination, and deepen practical cooperation in various fields. The two sides should promote the SCO to better play the role of ‘anchor of stability’ amid the once-in-a-century changes, strengthen communication and coordination in Asia-Pacific affairs, and jointly safeguard regional security, stability and development. China supports Russia in its work as BRICS presidency and stands ready to continuously strengthen bilateral strategic coordination in international multilateral platforms. The Russian side welcomed Sun Weidong for consultations in Russia and expressed readiness to take the opportunities of celebrating the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries and holding the Russia-China Years of Culture to work with the Chinese side to fully implement the important common understandings reached between the two heads of state, deepen bilateral and multilateral strategic coordination, promote the sustained, sound and stable development of the SCO, BRICS and other mechanisms, and jointly safeguard security and development of the Asia-Pacific region. The two sides also had an exchange of views on the Ukraine crisis, the situation on the Korean Peninsula, and other international and regional issues of mutual interest and concern.”
III. Wang Yi’s Press Meet
The full transcript of Wang Yi’s press engagement is not available at present. So I am going to do a brief breakdown of key points from the various snippets that have been published.
Chinese Foreign Policy Drivers: “China will firmly stand on the right side of history and the progress of human civilisation, hold high the banner of peace, development, cooperation, and win-win, seek its own development while firmly safeguarding world peace and development, and use its own development to better safeguard world peace and development.
2023’s Successes: “The construction of a community with a shared future for mankind has achieved full coverage in Central Asia and the Indochina Peninsula, and new results have been achieved in the construction of a community with a shared future for China-Africa, China-ASEAN, China-Arabia, and China-Latin America.” He mentioned the BRI summit, BRICS expansion and “facilitated the historic reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran, brokered a ceasefire agreement in northern Myanmar, and insisted on political settlement of all hot-spot issues”. He also said: “We resolutely oppose all acts of power bullying and vigorously safeguard national sovereignty, security, development interests and the common interests of developing countries. We will never stop adhering to diplomacy for the people and vigorously serve the overall development and stability of the country.” 王毅说，一年来，习近平主席主持两大主场外交，出席三场多边峰会，开展四次重要出访，举行百余场会见、通话，元首外交日益发挥不可替代的战略引领作用。构建人类命运共同体在中亚地区和中南半岛实现全覆盖，中国—非洲、中国—东盟、中国—阿拉伯、中国—拉美的命运共同体建设取得新成果。我们成功举办第三届“一带一路”国际合作高峰论坛，推动共建“一带一路”进入高质量发展新阶段。实现金砖历史性扩员，开启“全球南方”联合自强的新篇章。我们促成沙特伊朗历史性和解，斡旋缅北达成停火协议，坚持政治解决所有热点问题。坚决反对一切强权霸凌行径，有力维护国家主权安全发展利益和发展中国家共同利益。我们坚守外交为民永不停步，大力服务国家发展稳定大局.
Direction of Foreign Policy in 2024: He said that the Central Foreign Affairs Work Conference last year “made a comprehensive deployment of foreign work for the current and future periods, forming the top-level design of China's diplomatic strategy on the new journey.” 王毅表示，去年底召开的中央外事工作会议上，习近平主席对当前和今后一个时期的对外工作作出全面部署，形成了新征程上中国外交战略的顶层设计. He added that “we will become more confident and self-reliant in forging the character of China’s diplomacy; always emphasise the development and revitalisation of the country on the basis of our own strength and take the future and destiny of the Chinese people into our own hands; and will firmly pursue an independent foreign policy of peace and resolutely safeguard national sovereignty and national dignity. China’s diplomacy will be more open and inclusive, showcasing the broad-mindedness of Chinese diplomacy. We will consolidate and expand a global network of partnerships, promote the construction of a new type of international relations, and encourage mutual respect and learning among different civilizations. We will maintain stability in relations with major countries, advance together with neighboring countries, and collaborate for revitalization with countries in the Global South. We will uphold fairness and justice and demonstrate the character of Chinese diplomacy. We will practice true multilateralism and promote democratization of international relations. On issues of principle that concern the legitimate rights and interests of the vast number of developing countries and the future and destiny of mankind, we have a clearer stand, shouldering the moral responsibility and anchoring the correct direction of history. We will promote win-win cooperation and adhere to the pursuit of China's diplomacy. We will firmly follow the path of unity and cooperation, actively propose more Chinese solutions for regional and global issues, contribute more Chinese wisdom, and provide more public goods beneficial to world peace and development. We will continuously offer new opportunities to the world through China's new development. 王毅说，我们将更加自信自立，锻造中国外交的品格。始终把国家发展振兴放在自己力量的基点上，把中国人民的前途命运掌握在自己手中。坚定奉行独立自主的和平外交政策，坚定维护国家主权和民族尊严。我们将更加开放包容，展现中国外交的胸怀。巩固拓展全球伙伴关系网络，推动构建新型国际关系，促进不同文明互尊互鉴。保持大国关系稳定，与周边国家携手共进，与全球南方国家共谋振兴。我们将主持公道正义，亮明中国外交的风骨。践行真正的多边主义，推进国际关系民主化。在关系广大发展中国家正当权益、关乎人类前途命运的原则问题上旗帜更鲜明，铁肩担道义，锚定历史前进的正确方向。我们将推动合作共赢，坚守中国外交的追求。坚定走团结合作的人间正道，积极为解决地区热点和全球性问题提出更多中国方案，贡献更多中国智慧，提供更多有利于世界和平与发展的公共产品，不断以中国新发展为世界提供新机遇.
China-Russia Ties: Wang said that “maintaining and developing China-Russia relations well is a strategic choice made by both sides based on the fundamental interests of the two peoples, and it is also an inevitable requirement and conforms with the general trend of world development. As major powers in the world and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, China and Russia have created a new paradigm of major power relations that is completely different from the old Cold War era. Based on the principles of non-alignment, non-confrontation, and non-targeting of third parties, we seek to adhere to permanent good-neighborly friendship and deepening comprehensive strategic cooperation. In today’s world, hegemony is unpopular, division has no future, major powers should not confront each other, and the Cold War cannot be repeated. Sino-Russian relations conform to the trend of the times of world multipolarity and democratization of international relations, and are of great value to maintaining global strategic stability, promoting healthy interaction between major powers, and promoting cooperation among emerging major powers.” 王毅说，维护好、发展好中俄关系，是双方基于两国人民根本利益作出的战略选择，更是顺应世界发展大势的必然要求。作为世界主要大国和联合国安理会常任理事国，中俄双方打造了一种完全不同于冷战旧时代的大国关系新范式，在不结盟、不对抗、不针对第三方的基础上，坚持永久睦邻友好，深化全面战略协作。当今世界，霸权不得人心，分裂没有前途，大国不应对抗，冷战不能重来。中俄关系顺应世界多极化和国际关系民主化的时代潮流，对维护全球战略稳定、促进大国良性互动、推动新兴大国合作都具有重要价值。
On Building a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind: He called this the “core concept of Xi’s diplomatic thought.” It “represents China's proposal for what kind of world to build and how to construct it.” 王毅表示，构建人类命运共同体，是习近平外交思想的核心理念，是对建设一个什么样的世界、怎样建设这个世界给出的中国方案.
China-US Ties: He said that China “has always handled Sino-US relations with a responsible attitude toward history, the people, and the world. Our position is based on the three principles proposed by President Xi Jinping: mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation.” He elaborated: “mutual respect is a prerequisite, because the social and political systems of the two countries are different; only by respecting and recognizing differences can exchanges between the two countries be sustainable. Peaceful coexistence is the bottom line; the consequences of conflict and confrontation between two major countries like China and the United States will be unimaginable. Win-win cooperation is the goal; by joining hands, China and the United States can achieve many major outcomes that are beneficial to both countries and the world.” He talked about the San Francisco meeting between Xi and Biden, highlighting Biden’s promises. The next bit is useful:
“Wang Yi stated that since the meeting in San Francisco, there has indeed been some progress in improving China-U.S. relations, which aligns with the interests and desires of both countries and the global population. However, it must be pointed out that the US side’s misconceptions about China persist, and the commitments made have not been truly fulfilled. The methods used to suppress China are constantly being innovated, the list of unilateral sanctions is constantly being extended, and the desire to add more charges has reached an unimaginable level. If the United States consistently says one thing and does another, where is the credibility of a major country? If the United States becomes nervous and anxious at the mention of the word ‘China’, where is the confidence of a major country? If the United States only focuses on its own prosperity and does not allow other countries to develop legitimately, where is international justice? If the United States insists on monopolizing the high end of the value chain and only permits China to stay at the low end, where is fair competition? The challenge facing the United States lies within itself, not with China. If you focus solely on suppressing China, you will eventually harm yourself. We urge the United States to recognise the general trend of historical development, view China’s development objectively and rationally, carry out exchanges with China actively and pragmatically, and implement its commitments consistent with its words and deeds. Work with China to push China-US relations onto a stable, healthy and sustainable development track.” 王毅说，旧金山会晤以来，中美关系改善确实取得一些进展，这符合两国和世界人民的利益和愿望。但不得不指出的是，美方的对华错误认知仍在延续，所做的承诺并没有真正兑现。打压中国的手段不断花样翻新，单边制裁的清单不断延长，欲加之罪到了匪夷所思的程度。美国如果总是说一套、做一套，大国的信誉何在？美国如果一听到“中国”这两个字就紧张焦虑，大国的自信何在？美国如果只让自己保持繁荣，不允许别国正当发展，国际公理何在？美国如果执意垄断价值链高端，只让中国停留在低端，公平竞争何在？美国面对的挑战在自身，而不在中国。如果一门心思打压中国，最终必将害了自己。我们敦促美方认清历史发展大势，客观理性看待中国的发展，积极务实地开展对华交往，言行一致地把承诺落到实处。同中方一道，推动中美关系走上稳定、健康、可持续的发展轨道.
Global Order: “China’s position is that an equal and orderly world multipolarisation and an inclusive and inclusive economic globalisation should be achieved.” Under this, he talks about the centrality of the UN.
On the Israel-Palestine Issue: About the situation in Gaza, Wang said that “in the 21st century, the fact that this humanitarian disaster cannot be stopped is not only a tragedy for humanity but also a shame for civilization … The international community must take urgent action, making an immediate ceasefire the top priority and ensuring humanitarian aid as an urgent moral responsibility. The people of Gaza have the right to survive in this world, and women and children should receive the care of their families. All detained individuals should be released, and any acts harming civilians must be stopped.” 21世纪的今天，这场人道灾难竟然无法被制止，这是人类的悲剧，更是文明的耻辱。任何理由都不能再为冲突延续辩解，任何借口都不能再为平民被杀戮开脱。国际社会必须紧急行动起来，将立即停火止战作为压倒一切的首要任务，将确保人道救援作为刻不容缓的道义责任。加沙民众有权在这个世界上生存下去，妇女儿童应该得到亲人们的呵护。所有被扣押人员都应得到释放，一切伤害平民的行为都应被制止. He further called for “convening a larger, more authoritative and more effective international peace conference to formulate a timetable and road map for the implementation of the ‘two-state solution’.”
On Hotspot Issues: Wang made four points of principle for China, i.e., non-interference in internal affairs, political dialogue, adherence to objectivity and impartiality, and treating both the symptoms and the root causes.
On ties with EU: “Wang Yi said that a few years ago, an EU policy document labeled China as a partner, a competitor, and an institutional rival. However, facts have proven that this three-pronged positioning is not in line with the facts and is not tenable. Instead, it has brought unnecessary disturbances and obstacles to the development of China-EU relations. It is like driving a car to a crossroads with red, yellow, and green lights all lit simultaneously – how can the car proceed? In fact, China and the EU do not have any fundamental conflict of interests or geopolitical contradictions. Their common interests far outweigh the differences. The correct positioning for China-EU relations should be that of partners, with cooperation as the mainstream, autonomy/independence as the key value, and a win-win development prospect…Looking at the world, as long as China and Europe cooperate with each other for mutual benefit, camp confrontation will not be possible…” 王毅说，几年前，一份欧盟政策文件给中国同时贴上伙伴、竞争者、制度性对手三种标签，但事实证明，这种三重定位不符合事实，也不可行，反而给中欧关系发展带来不必要的干扰和阻碍。就好比汽车开到十字路口，红灯、黄灯、绿灯三种信号灯同时亮起，这车还怎么开？事实上，中欧并没有根本利益冲突，也没有地缘战略矛盾，双方的共同利益远远大于分歧。中欧关系的正确定位应当是伙伴，主流基调应当是合作，关键价值应当是自主，发展前景应当是共赢。我们希望中欧关系能一路绿灯，畅通无阻。一个强大的欧洲符合中国的长远利益，同样，一个强大的中国也符合欧洲的根本利益。中欧应共同做多边主义的践行者、开放发展的倡导者、文明对话的推动者。放眼全球，只要中欧互利合作，阵营对抗就搞不起来。只要中欧开放共赢，“逆全球化”就不会得势.
On Taiwan: Wang said that “the Taiwan regional election is just a local election…and will not change the basic fact that Taiwan is part of China, nor will it change the historical trend that Taiwan will return to the motherland. After the election, more than 180 countries and international organizations reaffirmed their adherence to the one-China principle and supported China in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity, which fully demonstrates that the one-China principle has become a general consensus of the international community. If there are still people who condone and support ‘Taiwan independence’, they are challenging China’s sovereignty. If a certain country insists on maintaining official relations with the Taiwan region, it is interfering in China’s internal affairs. I believe that sooner or later everyone will see a ‘family photo’ of the international community abiding by the one-China principle. It is only a matter of time.” 王毅表示，台湾地区选举只是中国的一个地方选举，选举结果丝毫改变不了台湾是中国一部分的基本事实，也改变不了台湾必将回归祖国的历史大势。选举结束后，180多个国家和国际组织重申坚持一个中国原则，支持中方维护国家主权和领土完整，充分说明一个中国原则已经是国际社会的普遍共识。如果现在还有人纵容支持“台独”，那就是挑战中国的主权。如果个别国家执意与台湾地区保持官方关系，那就是干涉中国的内政。我相信，大家迟早会看到一张国际社会遵守一中原则的“全家福”照片，这只是个时间问题. He added: “To truly safeguard peace across the Taiwan Strait, we must unequivocally oppose ‘Taiwan independence’.” 要真正维护台海和平，就必须旗帜鲜明地反对“台独”. “Our policy is very clear, which is to continue to strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification with the utmost sincerity. Our bottom line is also very clear, that is, Taiwan will never be allowed to split from the motherland.” 我们的政策很清晰，就是继续以最大诚意争取和平统一的前景。我们的底线也很清楚，那就是绝不允许台湾从祖国分裂出去. Anyone in Taiwan who seeks to pursue ‘Taiwan independence’ will face a historical reckoning. Anyone in the international community who condones and supports ‘Taiwan independence’ will inevitably end up burned and face the consequences.” 台湾岛内谁想搞“台独”，必将遭到历史的清算。国际上谁要纵容支持“台独”，必将引火烧身、自食苦果.
On the Ukraine War: Wang said that “China supports the timely convening of an international conference recognized by both Russia and Ukraine, with equal participation from all parties and fair discussions on all peace proposals.” 中方支持适时召开俄乌双方认可、各方平等参与、对所有和平方案进行公平讨论的国际和会。 He also said that “As long as all parties abide by the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and properly address the legitimate concerns of all parties, Europe can truly establish a balanced, effective and sustainable security architecture.” 只要各方都遵守联合国宪章的宗旨和原则，妥善解决好各方的合理关切，欧洲就能真正建立起均衡、有效、可持续的安全框架.
On the Global South: He said that “the expansion of BRICS represents the collective rise of the ‘Global South’.” “The Global South is no longer the ‘silent majority;’ but has become a key force in reshaping the international order, representing hope in the face of the once-in-a-century changes.”
On the South China Sea: Wang reiterated the standard talking points, but also said that the Code of Conduct “has successfully completed the second reading, with the third reading process being launched.”
On AI Governance: Wang said that “attempting to build ‘small yards and high fences’ in the field of artificial intelligence would constitute a new historical mistake. Such an approach would not only impede the technological development of various countries but also disrupt the integrity of international industrial and supply chains, weakening humanity’s ability to address risks and challenges. China maintains a positive and open attitude towards cooperation in artificial intelligence with other countries, and has so far established dialogue mechanisms with some countries. Cooperation among major countries in artificial intelligence is important, as is capacity building in developing countries. China will submit a draft resolution on ‘Strengthening International Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence Capacity Building’ to the UN General Assembly in due course to encourage all parties to strengthen technology sharing and strive to bridge the intelligence gap, so that no country will be left behind.” 王毅说，如果企图在人工智能上也搞什么“小院高墙”，将会犯下新的历史错误，不仅阻挡不了各国的科技发展，还会破坏国际产业链供应链完整，削弱人类应对风险挑战的能力。中国对与各国开展人工智能合作持积极开放态度，迄今已经与一些国家建立了对话机制。人工智能大国之间的合作很重要，发展中国家的能力建设也很重要。我们将适时向联大提交“加强人工智能能力建设国际合作”的决议草案，促进各方加强技术共享，努力弥合智能鸿沟，不让任何国家掉队.
Finally, Wang also said that “starting from March 14, China will further implement a visa-free policy for six countries: Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg.”