Commemorative Ceremony Held in Beijing
The China Foreign Affairs University (CFAU), a key institution for diplomatic education in China, held a ceremony in Beijing on September 19, 2025, to commemorate its 70th founding anniversary. The event was attended by Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee. During his address, Wang Yi underscored the university's significant contributions to China's diplomatic endeavors over seven decades.
A Legacy of Diplomatic Excellence
Founded in 1955 under the guidance of then-Premier Zhou Enlai, CFAU is directly affiliated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is recognized as 'the cradle of Chinese diplomats'. The university has played a crucial role in training a substantial number of diplomatic personnel, including over 600 diplomatic envoys and thousands of senior diplomats. Its mission is to cultivate professionals in Foreign Service, international studies, international business, and law. The university's motto is 'Stand firm, master policies, be familiar with business, and strictly observe discipline'.
Wang Yi Emphasizes Future Role in Global Diplomacy
In his speech, Foreign Minister Wang Yi praised CFAU's 'glorious history and fine traditions'. He noted that China's diplomacy, guided by 'Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy', is actively engaged in building a community with a shared future for mankind, positioning China as a force for global peace, stability, and progress. Wang Yi stated that 'major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics has entered a new historical stage', presenting both opportunities and higher demands for CFAU.
He urged the university to pursue new achievements in several key areas:
- Talent education
- Theoretical innovation
- Discipline development
- Openness and cooperation
Wang Yi also called upon CFAU students to align their personal aspirations with national needs, strengthen their political loyalty and professional competence, and temper their fighting spirit to 'shoulder the historic mission of advancing major-country diplomacy'. He encouraged the university to contribute 'Chinese wisdom' to the global effort of building a community with a shared future for humanity.
Historical Context and International Recognition
CFAU operates from two campuses in Beijing: the Zhanlanguan Rd Campus in Xicheng and the Shahe Campus in Changping. Over its history, the university has received international acclaim, with former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2008 praising it as 'the cradle of Chinese diplomacy' and former French President Jacques Chirac in 2009 recognizing it as 'the institute of higher education which cultivates top talents for Chinese diplomacy'.
6 Comments
BuggaBoom
Chinese wisdom can definitely bring new solutions to global challenges. Excited to see this.
Loubianka
China's rise in global diplomacy is undeniable, and training skilled diplomats is crucial. But the focus on strengthening 'fighting spirit' suggests a more confrontational approach than purely cooperative.
Katchuka
China's diplomatic efforts are essential for global stability. Proud of their contributions.
Muchacho
Wang Yi's speech sounds more like an internal directive than a global vision.
Bermudez
While CFAU has a long history of training diplomats, the emphasis on 'Xi Jinping Thought' raises questions about the scope of their independent thought and action.
Africa
It's good to see China investing in diplomatic education and global engagement. However, the call for 'major-country diplomacy' could be perceived as more about asserting power than genuine multilateralism.