China’s Foreign Minister Discusses Global Stability, US Relations, Taiwan, and the South China Sea

During a press conference on March 7, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi addressed major global and regional issues at China’s Two Sessions, the country’s key annual political event. His 90-minute session covered diplomacy, trade, security, and China’s stance on international conflicts.

1. China’s Commitment to Stability in an Unpredictable World
Positioning itself as a pillar of multilateralism, China aims to provide stability in a time of uncertainty. Mr Wang highlighted that global security should be based on fairness and mutual respect, stating that “Chinese diplomacy will always stand on the right side of history.” He also reaffirmed that no external pressure could undermine China’s progress.

2. Ukraine War: No Comment on Peacekeeping Troops
China has consistently called for diplomatic solutions to the Ukraine crisis. Mr Wang reiterated Beijing’s commitment to fostering dialogue but did not respond when asked if China would consider sending peacekeeping forces. He stressed that no nation should build its security at the expense of another.

3. US-China Relations: A Call for Mutual Respect
Addressing Washington’s approach to China, Mr Wang criticised the idea that the US could contain China while maintaining good relations with it. He warned against imposing tariffs and accused the US of adopting a contradictory stance. Regarding the fentanyl crisis, he stated that China has implemented one of the strictest anti-narcotics policies globally.

4. South China Sea: Tensions with the Philippines Dismissed
Mr Wang described recent conflicts between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea as a “shadow play” orchestrated by external forces. He emphasised that negotiations on a regional code of conduct were progressing and accused the US of interfering in Asia-Pacific affairs for its own interests.

5. Taiwan: “Never a Country”
Reaffirming China’s long-standing position, Mr Wang declared that Taiwan “was never and will never be a country.” He criticised any attempt to promote Taiwan’s independence and issued a warning to Japan, accusing certain figures of provoking instability by supporting Taiwanese self-determination.

6. Tech Rivalry: Suppression Fuels Innovation
Discussing technological competition, Mr Wang acknowledged external obstacles but asserted that restrictions had only accelerated China’s progress in fields such as artificial intelligence, space exploration, and telecommunications. He expressed China’s willingness to collaborate with other nations, particularly those in the Global South, to advance scientific development.