The 27th Chinese Peacekeeping Troops to United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) holds a ceremony to conclude its missions in Kinshasa, capital of the DRC, on May 4. Photo: XINHUA

China’s diplomacy is characterized as a “people’s diplomacy” under the leadership of the CPC. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee, with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, has keenly understood the evolving dynamics between China and the rest of the world. This insight has led to significant theoretical and practical innovations in foreign policy, culminating in what is known as Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy. Recently, Muhammad Asif Noor, director of the Islamabad-based think tank Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies, shared his understanding of Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy in an exclusive interview with CSST.

Noor said that Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy is a comprehensive and strategic framework that underpins China’s approach to international relations in the contemporary era. It reflects a synthesis of traditional Chinese wisdom, Marxist theory, and the practical necessities of the modern geopolitical landscape. This thought system, articulated by President Xi Jinping, emphasizes several core principles that guide China’s diplomatic endeavors: the pursuit of peaceful development, the construction of a human community with a shared future, and the promotion of global governance reforms.

Shared future

At the heart of Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy is the concept of a human community with a shared future, Noor explained. This vision advocates for a world where countries, despite their differences, work collaboratively to address common challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and economic inequality. By fostering mutual respect, equitable partnerships, and win-win cooperation, China aims to create an international environment conducive to collective progress and stability.

Noor pointed out that this approach is evident in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which seeks to enhance connectivity and economic integration across Asia, Europe, and Africa. Through the BRI, China has invested billions of dollars in infrastructure projects, thereby promoting development and fostering closer ties with participating countries. For instance, the construction of railways and ports in Africa has not only facilitated trade but also contributed to local economic growth and employment.

For another example, China’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and its ambitious goals for carbon neutrality by 2060 demonstrates its dedication to combating climate change. Moreover, during the COVID-19 pandemic, China not only managed its domestic crisis effectively but also extended significant support to other countries by providing medical supplies, vaccines, and technical assistance, thereby reinforcing the notion of a shared future, Noor said.

Inclusion and equity

Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy also advocates for reforming global governance structures to reflect the changing dynamics of international power relations, Noor stated. China posits that existing institutions like the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund should be reformed to better represent the interests of developing countries and emerging economies. This advocacy is rooted in the belief that a more inclusive and equitable global governance system will lead to more sustainable and balanced development. An example of this is China’s support for the G20 as a platform for international economic coordination, where emerging markets have a voice in shaping global economic policies.

Sovereignty and non-interference

In addition, Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy places a strong emphasis on the principle of sovereignty and non-interference, Noor noted. China consistently upholds that each country has the right to choose its own path of development, free from external pressure or intervention. This principle is particularly significant in the context of China’s relations with other developing nations, where it positions itself as a partner that respects local contexts and needs. For example, in its engagements in Africa and Latin America, China emphasizes partnership based on mutual benefit and respect, offering infrastructure development and investment without imposing political conditions.

Peaceful development

Noor said that Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy underscores the importance of peaceful development. China underscores the importance of fostering a stable and peaceful international environment through dialogue and negotiation. China advocates for resolving disputes through diplomatic channels and multilateral mechanisms, rather than through coercion or military force. This approach is evident in China’s active participation in various international forums and its role in mediating conflicts.

For instance, China’s participation in international peacekeeping missions under the United Nations exemplifies its commitment to maintaining global peace and security. By deploying peacekeepers to conflict zones, China not only contributes to international stability but also demonstrates its role as a responsible global actor. China has been involved in facilitating peace talks in the Korean Peninsula, advocating for a denuclearized and stable region through dialogue and cooperation among the concerned parties, Noor observed.

He added that a recent manifestation of Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy is China’s approach to its relations with Europe. During President Xi’s visit to Europe in 2024, the deepening of ties with countries like France, Serbia, and Hungary highlighted China’s commitment to fostering long-term strategic partnerships based on mutual benefit and respect for sovereignty. These engagements reflect China’s broader vision of a multipolar world, where different regions and countries work together to address global challenges and share in the benefits of development.