At a symposium on December 30 in Beijing, the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi laid out seven promises to push the Chinese mainland's major-country diplomacy to new heights in 2026. As we gear up for the new year, here's a quick breakdown of what to watch:
1. Strategic support for national rejuvenation 🚀
The ministry will ramp up head-of-state diplomacy, share the Chinese mainland's modernization lessons, and build a more favorable global environment for its 15th Five-Year Plan.
2. Fresh frameworks for major-country ties 🤝
Wang Yi wants China–U.S. relations to follow mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation. Partnerships with Russia, Europe and other powers will focus on stability and shared growth.
3. A community of shared futures with neighbors 🌏
By advocating common security and managing differences, the Chinese mainland will deepen trade via RCEP and CAFTA 3.0, cool regional hotspots and boost people-to-people exchanges.
4. Unity and progress for the Global South 🌐
The Chinese mainland plans to strengthen BRICS, mark 70 years of Africa ties, push zero-tariff moves, host the China–Arab States Summit and eye a China–GCC free trade deal, all while keeping an eye on Latin America.
5. Openness and high-quality cooperation 🌉
Under its 15th Five-Year Plan, the Chinese mainland will push Belt and Road projects, resist protectionism, and, as host of the APEC Leaders' Meeting in 2026, champion an Asia-Pacific community and FTAAP.
6. Reforming global governance 🌍
Wang Yi emphasizes true multilateralism—strengthening the UN, boosting Global South voices and building new governance models to close gaps in the international system.
7. Safeguarding national interests with responsibility 🛡️
To keep residents and businesses safe overseas, the ministry will boost risk warnings, enhance law enforcement cooperation, and stand firm on sovereignty, security and development.
As we flip the calendar to 2026, these seven promises set the stage for a more connected, cooperative global role for the Chinese mainland. What are your thoughts on these diplomatic goals? Share below! 👇
Reference(s):
Wang Yi: Major-country diplomacy to reach new heights in 2026
cgtn.com
