On March 8, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi outlined Beijing’s diplomatic priorities during a press conference on the sidelines of the annual session of the National People’s Congress, addressing global conflicts, relations with major powers, cooperation with Africa, and the protection of Chinese citizens abroad.
Addressing the escalating conflict involving Iran, Wang called for an immediate halt to military operations and warned against further escalation in the Middle East. He described the war as one that ’’should not have happened’’, emphasizing that armed confrontation would only deepen regional instability.
China urged respect for national sovereignty, opposition to the use of force, and non-interference in the internal affairs of regional countries as key principles for resolving the crisis. According to Wang, civilians must be protected and diplomacy should replace military confrontation.
During a press conference, Wang also highlighted that U.S.-China relations remain a top priority for Beijing. He said maintaining communication between the world’s two largest economies is essential to avoid misunderstandings and global instability. According to Wang, both sides must manage differences carefully and pursue dialogue to maintain constructive engagement.
He also noted that upcoming meetings between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump could focus on stabilizing relations, preserving economic cooperation, and preventing further escalation in global conflicts. Wang framed the talks as ’’vital’’ for both bilateral relations and broader international stability.
Wang also reaffirmed the strength of relations between China and Russia, describing the bilateral partnership as stable despite global tensions. He said the China-Russia strategic partnership reflects a new model of international relations based on equality, respect and mutual benefit.
The two countries have maintained close diplomatic coordination, including a recent phone conversation between Wang and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov discussing international security developments and the situation surrounding Iran.
During the briefing, Wang emphasized that China’s partnership with African countries remains a key pillar of its foreign policy. China plans to deepen economic and cultural ties with the continent, including the introduction of zero tariffs on all tariff lines for African countries starting May 1.
Wang also stressed that protecting Chinese citizens and business interests overseas remains a central task of China’s diplomatic service. He said Beijing will continue improving mechanisms that ensure the safety and support of Chinese nationals working or traveling abroad.
’’Where there is the Chinese flag flying, there are Chinese diplomats on duty’’, Wang said, adding that the government remains committed to assisting citizens wherever they may face difficulties overseas.
By supporting negotiations in global conflicts, deepening cooperation with Russia, and expanding partnerships with African countries, Beijing seeks to increase its role in international politics. However, according to Reuters, China’s diplomatic position often represents a strategic balancing among global powers. Although Beijing emphasizes negotiations and economic cooperation, it simultaneously maintains close partnerships with countries such as Russia, which contributes to the emergence of new geopolitical dynamics in the international security environment.
Author: Mariam Simsive
