Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi outlined an ambitious roadmap for China's major-country diplomacy during a symposium in Beijing this week, emphasizing seven key priorities to advance global cooperation and modernization under the 15th Five-Year Plan starting in 2026. The strategy aims to strengthen China's role as a stabilizing force in international relations while addressing shared challenges.
Prioritizing National Development and Global Synergy
Wang stressed that 2026 diplomacy will focus on supporting China's domestic modernization goals while sharing development experiences with other nations. This includes aligning the interests of the Chinese mainland's 1.4 billion people with global partners through initiatives like the Belt and Road and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
Redefining Major-Country Relations
The plan calls for building "stable, balanced" ties with the U.S. based on mutual respect, deepening comprehensive strategic coordination with Russia, and expanding practical cooperation with Europe. Wang emphasized China's commitment to peaceful coexistence despite geopolitical tensions.
Regional Stability and Global South Partnerships
China will intensify mediation efforts in regional conflicts while advancing economic integration through the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0. For the Global South, Beijing plans to expand BRICS cooperation, host the second China-Arab States Summit, and implement zero-tariff policies for African nations during the 70th anniversary of Sino-African diplomatic relations.
Multilateral Reform and Economic Openness
As host of APEC 2026, China aims to accelerate progress toward a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific while opposing protectionism. Wang reaffirmed commitments to WTO-centered trade systems and high-standard opening-up policies to counter decoupling attempts.
Safeguarding Sovereignty and Overseas Interests
The ministry pledged enhanced consular protection mechanisms and law enforcement cooperation to ensure security for Chinese citizens and businesses abroad, while firmly opposing any actions threatening territorial integrity.
