A Decade of Distinctive Characteristics

The year 2024 marks a significant milestone in China's foreign policy history. It's the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping's proposal for "major country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics." This concept has shaped China's diplomatic approach over the past decade, showcasing its unique style and ethos on the world stage.

Analysts and scholars have highlighted several key characteristics of China's major country diplomacy. These include a commitment to peace, dialogue, equality, mutual respect, non-interference, and win-win cooperation. Unlike some other major powers, China's policies are not solely driven by narrow national interests, but rather by a global vision that seeks to benefit all of humanity.

The concept of major country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics has evolved over the past decade, with its theoretical framework solidifying and its supporting pillars being built. The Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs, held in December 2022, identified the theme of China's external work as building a community with a shared future for mankind. This aligns with the noble goal pursued by China in conducting its major country diplomacy.

The principles guiding China's major country diplomacy are self-confidence and self-reliance, openness and inclusiveness, fairness and justice, and win-win cooperation. This approach calls for China to act as a responsible major country, shouldering its duties, meeting global challenges, and contributing to global governance.

China's major country diplomacy also draws on the country's rich cultural heritage, including its consistent pursuit of a peaceful rise, objection to hegemony, and commitment to innovation. This approach has led to China becoming a responsible major country with enhanced international influence, stronger capacity to steer new endeavors, and greater moral appeal.

Head-of-state diplomacy has played a crucial role in China's major country diplomacy. President Xi Jinping's leadership has been instrumental in guiding China's foreign policy and achieving tangible diplomatic results. His diplomatic efforts have brought China closer to assuming a leading role on the global stage.

Looking ahead, China's major country diplomacy is expected to win more support and understanding from other countries. The contrast between China's worldview and practice and those of other major powers is likely to contribute to this growing acceptance. As China continues to engage with the world, its major country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the global landscape.