In recent years, China’s head-of-state diplomacy has been pivotal in reshaping its relationships with the rest of the world. This diplomacy, guided by President Xi Jinping, has been at the forefront of China’s push for multilateralism and a more stable global order. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, speaking at a press conference on March 2025, highlighted the country’s growing role in global governance and its commitment to working collaboratively with other nations. Let’s explore the key takeaways from Wang’s remarks and what they signal about China’s direction in the international arena.
Key Highlights of China’s Head-of-State Diplomacy
Head-of-state diplomacy is now a defining feature of China’s foreign policy. Through this diplomacy, President Xi Jinping has not only strengthened ties with major global powers but has also positioned China as a leader advocating for a community with a shared future for mankind.
Wang Yi shared that the efforts of China’s head-of-state diplomacy have led to fruitful results over the past year. As the world faces challenges ranging from unilateralism to protectionism, China continues to advocate for multilateralism and global cooperation. Wang’s speech revealed that 2025 would bring even more opportunities for China to deepen its global relationships and offer stability in times of uncertainty.
Multilateralism in a Changing World
At the heart of Wang Yi’s speech were several key buzzwords: stability, cooperation, multilateralism, and the Global South. These terms paint a picture of China’s strategy to counter the growing challenges posed by unilateral actions from other world powers, especially the United States.
Wang acknowledged that we are living in a turbulent world where stability is becoming increasingly rare. In this context, China views itself as a force for certainty and stability. As one of the world’s major powers, China’s actions—particularly its foreign policy decisions—have the potential to shape global affairs. China has firmly committed to standing on the right side of history, and according to Wang, its role in diplomacy will be one that consistently aligns with human progress.
Wang stressed the importance of understanding that certainty in international relations can be brought about through multilateralism. China’s commitment to multilateralism offers an alternative to the escalating tensions caused by unilateral actions.
China’s Criticism of US Trade and Fentanyl Tariffs
A significant portion of the press conference addressed China’s relationship with the United States. In particular, Wang Yi responded to questions surrounding the ongoing tariff impositions from the US, particularly those concerning fentanyl. The imposition of tariffs by the US, according to Wang, is a clear example of a “two-faced” approach where the US government attempts to maintain good relations with China while simultaneously imposing punitive tariffs.
Wang directly called out the US for its contradictory behaviour. “The US should not return good with evil, or even impose arbitrary tariffs,” he stated, further questioning the real outcomes of the trade wars. He raised important questions about the US’s trade deficit, inflation, and economic growth, suggesting that the outcomes of tariffs have been largely ineffective in achieving the goals set by the US administration.
This rhetoric points to China’s broader concern about the effectiveness of unilateral policies. For China, sustainable relations are grounded in cooperation rather than provocative actions that undermine trust.
Innovation and Technological Progress Amid Blockades
When questioned about China’s remarkable progress in science and technology, particularly with the emergence of DeepSeek, Wang Yi reinforced the idea that technological development should benefit all nations, rather than be monopolised or blocked by certain powers. He made an analogy to Nezha, a Chinese mythological hero, symbolising China’s ability to break through barriers and innovate, even in the face of adversity.
Wang’s comments reflect China’s firm belief that science and technology should be free from geopolitical restrictions. Despite challenges, including attempts by other countries to hinder China’s growth, innovation and breakthroughs will continue. Wang made it clear that where there is blockade, there will always be breakthrough, and China is fully committed to this path.
Strengthening Relationships with the Global South
Another focal point of Wang Yi’s remarks was the growing influence of the Global South. China has consistently supported the rising power of developing countries and emerging markets, advocating for a fairer international order. Wang noted that the Global South—including countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America—is reshaping the global landscape and driving changes in the international system.
China’s partnerships with countries in the Global South have grown exponentially. Over 100 countries now support China’s Belt and Road Initiative and global initiatives. China’s diplomatic engagements have created opportunities for the Global South to take a stronger stance in global governance, particularly in international organisations like the UN.
Wang Yi also mentioned upcoming events that would bring leaders from across the Global South together, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in China, the BRICS summit in Brazil, and the G20 summit in South Africa. China views these platforms as critical for furthering its vision of cooperation and mutual benefit among nations.
China’s Vision for Global Governance
Wang Yi concluded his remarks by emphasising China’s commitment to strengthening the United Nations and reforming global governance. In a world that has seen increasing bloc confrontations, China aims to be a stabilising force, advocating for multilateral solutions and supporting sovereign equality among nations.
China has already taken steps in this direction, most recently presiding over a high-level UN Security Council meeting to discuss multilateralism and global governance reform. Wang highlighted that over 100 countries supported these initiatives, signalling a broad consensus for change.
Wang reiterated that global governance must be inclusive and fair, with no single nation or bloc dominating the agenda. By advocating for a just and equitable system, China aims to bring greater balance to international affairs and ensure that global governance benefits all countries, especially those in the Global South.
Conclusion: China’s Role in a Shifting Global Order
In summary, China’s diplomacy under President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang Yi continues to position the country as a strong advocate for multilateralism and global stability. As the world faces growing instability and challenges from unilateral actions, China’s commitment to shared prosperity and a community with a shared future for mankind offers a much-needed counterbalance. The key to success will lie in how China works with other nations to shape a future that benefits all, particularly in an era of growing global uncertainty.
Photo credit: Global Times
