China is consolidating its role as a responsible global power through the enactment of the Law on Foreign Relations, adopted at the third session of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress on June 28. This landmark legislation emphasizes China’s unwavering commitment to building a shared future for mankind. The law lays the groundwork for China’s interactions with the international community, and upholds the values of sovereignty, mutual respect and cooperation.
The law serves as a specific legal framework that consolidates China’s approach to global engagement. It demonstrates China’s commitment to advancing a high-standard of opening-up, upholding the multilateral trading system, promoting international cooperation and strengthening the rule of law in foreign affairs.
The law provides a more systematic and comprehensive approach to China’s foreign relations, ensuring consistency, transparency and predictability in its interactions with other nations. It will serve to showcase China’s dedication to global peace and development, particularly as the country’s role in global affairs expands. It sends a clear message to the international community about China’s commitment to an open, inclusive and rules-based international order.
Central to China’s global role is the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind. The Law on Foreign Relations reflects China’s commitment to this vision, emphasizing principles such as friendship, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness in international engagements. China firmly believes in the importance of cooperation, mutual respect and peaceful resolutions to foster global harmony. The law underscores China’s dedication to promoting dialogue with other nations, pursuing common goals and establishing equitable relationships.
The law highlights China’s commitment to encouraging external economic cooperation and promoting the development of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). By creating opportunities for economic growth and connectivity, China contributes to the stability and development of regions across the globe. The BRI, with its focus on inclusive and sustainable development, fosters cooperation, cultural exchanges and mutual understanding among participating nations, thereby promoting a harmonious global community.
In a world grappling with rising protectionism, China’s commitment to upholding multilateral trade is of paramount importance. The Law on Foreign Relations underscores China’s opposition to unilateralism and protectionism and advocates for an open global economy. By advocating for a fair and just international economic order, China promotes a level playing field for all nations. Its commitment to trade liberalization, market access and the resolution of trade disputes through dialogue demonstrates its dedication to global stability.
The law highlights China’s aid and assistance to developing countries, focusing on economic, technical and human resource support. This aims to help recipient countries achieve their development goals. China’s non-interference policy ensures that aid is provided on the basis of mutual benefit, thus fostering an environment of cooperation.
China recognizes the importance of the rule of law in both domestic and foreign affairs. The Law on Foreign Relations emphasizes the need to strengthen the rule of law in foreign-related legislative work. By ensuring compliance with fundamental norms governing international relations, China promotes a rules-based international order.
By upholding principles of mutual respect and cooperation, China promotes a vision of global peace where nations work together to address common challenges. The enforcement of this law reaffirms China’s commitment to mutual understanding and shared benefits for all mankind.
