Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met the press on Friday Morning to discuss Beijing’s Foreign policy direction.
Here are some key takeaways from the press conference.
U.S. Tariffs and Trade Tensions
Wang Yi slammed the U.S. for imposing new tariffs on Chinese goods, calling the move “two-faced” and unfair. He argued that these restrictions go against free trade principles and will ultimately backfire on the global economy.
Fentanyl Crisis and U.S.-China Relations
The Foreign Minister addressed the U.S. fentanyl crisis, emphasizing China’s efforts to curb the issue. He criticized Washington for responding with trade penalties instead of acknowledging Beijing’s cooperation.
China-Russia Relations and the Ukraine War
Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s strong ties with Russia, saying the partnership remains solid despite global pressure. He also stressed China’s push for political settlement in Ukraine through dialogue and negotiation.
Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
He reiterated China’s firm support for a two-state solution, stating that forced territorial changes won’t bring lasting peace. The principle of “the Palestinians governing Palestine” should be upheld in the post-war governance of Gaza, with the ultimate goal of achieving peaceful coexistence between Palestine and Israel, as well as long-term peace and stability in the Middle East, Yi said.
Major Powers and Global Governance
Wang Yi didn’t hold back on criticizing powerful nations for bullying smaller countries. He urged developing nations to strengthen their influence in global decision-making and push back against economic coercion.
China-EU Relationship
Foreign Minister stated that “a healthy and stable China-EU relationship will uplift both sides and contribute to a brighter world. China and the EU have the capacity and wisdom to jointly usher in another promising 50 years”.
African Modernization
Wang added that there will be no global modernization without African modernization. The world must listen to Africa, heed its concerns, and support it in exploring a new development path of self-reliance and self-strengthening.
Development in Global South
Wang stressed that the Global South should form a united voice in the international arena, safeguard common interests, and continue to enhance the representatives and voice in global governance.
“We should insist on placing development at the center of the international agenda, cultivate development momentum, enhance development capacity and walk hand in hand on the road to modernization,” Wang added.
Tensions in Asia and the South China Sea
Infringement and provocation in the South China Sea will backfire and those acting as others’ chess pieces are bound to be discarded, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Friday.
China’s Warning on Taiwan
Wang Yi made it clear that Taiwan is a “red line” for China and that any attempts at independence will be met with a strong response. He warned external forces against interfering in the Taiwan issue, calling it a matter of national sovereignty.
Tech Sanctions and China’s Innovation Push
Wang Yi pointed to China’s AI firm DeepSeek as proof that U.S. sanctions are only fueling China’s technological advancements. He made it clear that China is determined to be self-sufficient in critical industries. “We are witnessing an ever-expanding horizon for China to become a science and technology powerhouse,” Wang added.
Diplomatic Outreach
Wang Yi also noted Premier Li Qiang’s recent meetings with leaders from Japan, Russia, Germany, and France, highlighting China’s diplomatic efforts to strengthen global ties.
