Category: International relations

Symposium held in London: New Development of China, New Opportunities for the World

On Friday 24 October 2025, the Chinese Embassy in the UK organised a symposium on the topic New Development of China, New Opportunities for the World. The symposium was focused on the complex and ever-changing international situation; the challenges facing the United Nations and multilateralism; and China’s recently-proposed Global Governance Initiative, which addresses itself to the critical issue of “how to build a global governance system and how to reform and improve global governance”.

The event introduced by Minister Zhao Fei, followed by a keynote speech by Ambassador Zheng Zeguang. Counsellor Mu Yongpeng provided an introduction to the Global Governance Initiative, and Counsellor Kong Xiangwen introduced China’s position on the questions of Taiwan and UN Resolution 2758.

British participants were then invited to contribute remarks:

  1. Robert Griffiths, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Britain
  2. Andy Brooks, General Secretary of the New Communist Party of Britain
  3. Stephen Perry, Honorary President of the 48 Group Club
  4. Martin Albrow, Fellow of the British Academy of Social Sciences
  5. Kerry Brown, Director of the Lau China Institute at Kings College, London
  6. Ollie Shiell, CEO of UK National Committee on China
  7. Frances Wood, Sinologist
  8. Keith Bennett, Co-editor of Friends of Socialist China
  9. Hugh Goodacre, Managing Director of Xi Jinping Thought Study Group
  10. Max Browning, Schwarzman Scholar at Tsinghua University
  11. Janet St John-Austen, Director of Xi Jinping Thought Study Group
  12. Carlos Martinez, Co-editor of Friends of Socialist China
  13. George Korkovelos, Central Committee Member of the Communist Party of Great Britain (Marxist-Leninist)

We reproduce below the Embassy’s report of the event, followed by the contributions by Keith Bennett and Carlos Martinez.

Ambassador Zheng Zeguang Briefs Representatives of Different Sectors in the UK on the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee

On 24 October 2025, the Chinese Embassy in the UK held a symposium on “New Development of China, New Opportunities for the World” to brief participants on the important decisions made by the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. Chinese Ambassador to the UK Zheng Zeguang delivered a keynote speech at the symposium. Representatives of several UK political parties and those from different sectors attended the symposium and joined in the discussions.

In his speech, Ambassador Zheng noted that the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee comes at a time when China is marching towards the second Centenary Goal and represents a call to action for the entire country to seize the momentum and advance Chinese modernisation.

With this meeting, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core sets to unite and lead the Chinese people to write yet another chapter on the miracles of rapid economic growth and long-term social stability and to open up new horizons for Chinese modernisation.

Ambassador Zheng pointed out that the meeting has identified the critical role the next five years will play in China’s development. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, China has achieved pioneering progress, breakthrough transformation, and historic accomplishments in its economic and social development. Over these five years, China has reached new heights in terms of economic, scientific and technological capabilities, and composite national strength. China’s economy will grow by about 4 trillion pounds.

carlosmartinez

Free Mumia Campaign discusses China and the international anti-imperialist struggle

On Sunday October 19 the Free Mumia Abu Jamal Campaign UK organised a discussion meeting on the theme of China and the international anti-imperialist struggle at International House in Brixton, south London.

Chaired by Sarah Mudd and introduced by Wilf Dixon of the Free Mumia Campaign, the meeting heard three presentations expressing differing views within a common overall anti-imperialist perspective:

  • Our Co-editor Keith Bennett spoke on ‘China and the global struggle against imperialism today’;
  • Cecil Gutzmore, Chair of the Free Mumia Campaign and veteran revolutionary Pan-Africanist, spoke on ‘Judeo-Christendom’s racism and the global anti-China movement’; and
  • Andy Higginbottom, former Assistant Professor at Kingston University, London, and a long-standing anti-imperialist activist and Marxist scholar, spoke on ‘Neo-colonialism still matters – Militarisation and Imperial Grand Strategy (US v. China)’.

The presentations were followed by a lively discussion and informal networking. We embed below a video of the three speeches, followed by the text of Keith Bennett’s presentation.

I’d like to thank the Free Mumia Abu Jamal Campaign UK for their initiative in organising this discussion on China and the international anti-imperialist struggle and for inviting me to speak.

Some might ask why a campaign such as yours might wish to address such a topic. But such a view could be said to not fully take account of why you have – correctly in my view – placed such importance on Mumia’s case and on the necessity to win the freedom of this revolutionary fighter who has endured some 43 years of incarceration in the hell hole conditions of the US prison system without losing his revolutionary faith and will or his original aspiration.

Whether before or throughout his long imprisonment, Mumia’s writings have expressed unwavering solidarity with the struggles of peoples throughout the world against imperialism. In his early teens, he joined the Black Panther Party. Many things distinguished the Panthers, of course – from armed self-defence to free breakfast programs for children to clinics to treat sickle cell anaemia. But equally distinctive was the strong solidarity the party expressed, and the inspiration it drew from, the Asian socialist countries – from China, Vietnam and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). From their long-standing, protracted struggles against imperialism. And from their revolutionary standpoint and their creative application and development of Marxism-Leninism from the standpoint of the oppressed.

Continue reading Free Mumia Campaign discusses China and the international anti-imperialist struggle

Understanding the changes unseen in a century

The following text is based on a presentation given by Friends of Socialist China co-editor Carlos Martinez at the Thinkers Forum, held at Fudan University, Shanghai, on 16 October 2025, which event brought together thinkers and scholars from around the world to discuss “Global Changes and the Reshaping of the World Order.”

Carlos explores the meaning of Xi Jinping’s observation that “the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century”, arguing that these changes reflect a historic shift from Western-led unipolar dominance toward a multipolar, post-imperialist global order. The article traces these changes back to the October Revolution of 1917, which opened a new era of socialist development and anti-colonial liberation.

After the setbacks of the 1980s and 1990s — including the collapse of the Soviet Union and the rise of neoliberal globalisation — Western commentators like Francis Fukuyama declared “the end of history”. Yet, as Deng Xiaoping noted, history advances through contradictions and reversals. The 2008 financial crisis, widening inequality and environmental collapse have since exposed the limits of neoliberal capitalism.

Meanwhile, a multipolar world is emerging. China stands at the centre of this process, advancing initiatives such as the Belt and Road, the Global Development Initiative, and the Global Governance Initiative — all based on sovereignty, non-interference, and mutual benefit. Such efforts are helping countries of the Global South break from dependency and pursue sustainable, sovereign development.

The US and its allies, meanwhile, cling to hegemony through wars, sanctions, economic coercion and destabilisation. Humanity faces a stark choice: socialism or barbarism, cooperation or confrontation. Carlos concludes by calling for a global united front of socialist, anti-imperialist, and progressive forces to ensure that this century’s transformations lead to peace, justice, and sustainable development.

Carlos’s presentation was summarised in the popular Chinese news website Guancha.

General Secretary Xi Jinping has observed several times that “the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century”. What are these changes, and what are their implications for the current global situation?

Before addressing the changes the world is experiencing today, it is worthwhile reflecting on the major changes that occurred a century ago, since the dramatic shifts of that time laid the foundations for the transformations we are witnessing now.

The October Revolution of 1917 was a watershed moment marking the beginning of humanity’s transition from capitalism to socialism. The revolution in Russia led to the formation of the world’s first socialist state – the Soviet Union – which became a revolutionary base area for the working class and oppressed peoples of the world. The Soviet Union provided crucial support for the liberation of, and construction of socialism in, Eastern Europe, China, Cuba, Korea, Vietnam and elsewhere.

The Soviet Union and China played the decisive role in the defeat of fascism in World War II. This victory gave tremendous impetus to the anti-colonial movement and national liberation struggles around the world – in Africa, in Asia, in Latin America, in the Caribbean and the Pacific. The colonial system was no longer viable.

As such, the October Revolution constituted the first major breach in the imperialist world system, thereby marking the start of the current era of human development.

Continue reading Understanding the changes unseen in a century

Xi Jinping meets with heads of state and government attending Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women

Following the 2025 Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women, which was held in Beijing on October 13, Chinese President Xi Jinping met the following day with the five heads of state or government – four of them women – who had attended.

Meeting with President of Dominica Sylvanie Burton, President Xi noted that Dominica is China’s good friend and good partner in the Caribbean. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties more than 20 years ago, the two sides have always respected each other and treated each other as equals. With ever consolidating political mutual trust, growing exchanges and cooperation in various fields and deepening friendship between the people, China and Dominica set a good example of friendly cooperation between countries of different social systems and sizes. China will continue supporting Dominica in enhancing capabilities in climate action and disaster prevention and mitigation, strengthen cooperation in such areas as infrastructure, clean energy, healthcare, agriculture and empowerment of women, and enhance people-to-people exchanges in culture, education and tourism. Efforts should be made to implement the consensus reached at the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women and deepen cooperation on women’s capacity building.

President Burton said that China is a great friend and highly valued partner of Dominica and appreciated China’s valuable support and sincere friendship. Dominica and China share common ideals and pursuits, and deepening bilateral relations will bring bright prospects for the people of Dominica. Dominica is steadfastly committed to the one-China principle. It will enhance cooperation with China in trade, agriculture, the green economy, new energy, healthcare, and climate response, among other areas, strengthen people-to-people exchanges, advance cooperation between Latin America and the Caribbean and China, and write a new chapter in bilateral relations. China is a crucial force for peace and stability in today’s world. Its vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity and commitment to sharing development opportunities with the world and promoting solidarity among the Global South is inspiring and is a beacon of hope for the world. Dominica stands ready to work closely with China to oppose unilateralism and hegemonism and safeguard the common interests of developing countries.

Meeting with Icelandic President Halla Tómasdóttir, President Xi noted that, over the past 54 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China and Iceland have respected each other and pursued win-win cooperation. The fruitful outcomes achieved in bilateral relations have fully shown that countries with different national conditions are fully capable of transcending differences in social system and other areas to achieve mutual benefit.

The two sides should deepen practical cooperation in such areas as economy and trade, geothermal energy and healthcare, and jointly promote green transition and address climate change. The two sides should also step up people-to-people exchanges in tourism, education and other fields to enhance friendship and mutual understanding between the two peoples. Both China and Iceland support multilateralism, the international system with the UN at its core and the international order underpinned by international law. The two sides should strengthen communication and coordination, commit to addressing international disputes through dialogue and consultation, and strive for a more just and equitable global governance system. It is important to build on the successful convening of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women to promote continued progress in the global cause of women.

President Tómasdóttir congratulated China on the successful hosting of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women and appreciated China for the warm reception and full respect shown to a small country like Iceland. Iceland highly appreciates China’s significant contributions to promoting the global women’s cause and will strengthen communication and cooperation with China to advance the all-round development of women worldwide. Iceland and China have enjoyed friendship over decades. The strong and robust bilateral relationship has yielded fruitful results in such areas as trade, geothermal energy and tourism.

Continue reading Xi Jinping meets with heads of state and government attending Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women

Premier Li Qiang joins celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the Workers’ Party of Korea in Pyongyang

The Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK), the ruling party in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), celebrated its 80th founding anniversary on October 10.

Congratulating his Korean counterpart Kim Jong Un, General Secretary of the WPK, Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC), wrote that over the past 80 years, the WPK has united and led the people of the DPRK to forge ahead and overcome difficulties, making impressive achievements in advancing their socialist cause.

In recent years, Comrade General Secretary has led the Party and people of the DPRK to work relentlessly to strengthen party building, develop the economy and improve people’s livelihood, he said.

Xi wished that under the strong leadership of the WPK headed by Comrade General Secretary, the socialist cause of the DPRK will continue to achieve new accomplishments, and the country will greet the successful convening of the WPK’s 9th Congress.

Noting that both China and the DPRK are socialist countries led by communist parties, Xi said that in recent years, he has held multiple meetings with Kim to guide and steer the development of relations between the two parties and two countries, opening a new chapter in the China-DPRK friendship.

Xi also recalled Kim’s recent visit to China to attend the commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, during which the two leaders had in-depth discussions and charted the course for further developing the friendly and cooperative relations between China and the DPRK.

No matter how the international situation changes, it remains the unwavering policy of the CPC and the Chinese government to maintain, consolidate and develop China-DPRK relations, Xi noted.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who is also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, led a delegation of the Chinese party and government to attend the celebrations in the DPRK capital Pyongyang.

Upon arrival on October 9, Li said that China and the DPRK, as socialist neighbours connected by mountains and rivers, enjoy a profound traditional friendship.

In recent years, under the strategic guidance and personal efforts of General Secretary Xi Jinping and General Secretary Kim Jong Un, China-DPRK relations have been brimming with new dynamism and vitality, he said.

In September, General Secretary Kim came to China to attend the commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War and the top leaders of the two parties and the two countries held another successful meeting and reached a series of important consensus, charting the course for the development of bilateral relations.

Li Qiang met with Kim Jong Un the same day.

According to the Xinhua News Agency, the Chinese premier said that China is ready to work with the DPRK to further carry forward their traditional friendship, deepen practical cooperation, and closely coordinate and cooperate in international and regional affairs.

Li also called on the two sides to strengthen multilateral collaboration, firmly safeguard and practice multilateralism, and promote the development of the international order in a more just and equitable direction.

Kim asked Li to convey his sincere greetings and best wishes to General Secretary Xi and warmly welcomed the Chinese party and government delegation to the DPRK for the celebratory event, noting that under General Secretary Xi’s wise leadership, China has achieved tremendous accomplishments in socialist construction.

Continue reading Premier Li Qiang joins celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the Workers’ Party of Korea in Pyongyang

Tianjin Declaration advances roadmap for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

On August 31-September 1, the Chinese coastal city of Tianjin hosted the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

The meeting adopted the Tianjin Declaration. At just over 6,000 words, it sets out a comprehensive roadmap for the next phase of the organisation’s development across a wide range of issues and sectors. It begins by noting that:

“The global political and economic landscape, as well as other fields of international relations, are undergoing profound historical changes. The international system is evolving toward a more just, equitable, and representative multipolarity, opening new prospects for countries’ own development and mutually beneficial cooperation.

“At the same time, geopolitical confrontations are intensifying, posing threats and challenges to the security and stability of the world and the SCO region. The global economy, particularly international trade and financial markets, is suffering severe shocks.

“The year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in World War II and the founding of the United Nations. The great victory of peace-loving nations united to defeat Nazism, fascism, and militarism determined the course of world history and created conditions for establishing a stable international relations system ensuring peaceful development for humanity. Member states call for remembering the heroic feats of peoples and the historical lessons of World War II.”

In a clear reference to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, adopted by China’s Premier Zhou Enlai and Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1954, it states:

“Member states advocate respect for the right of all peoples to independently choose their political, economic, and social development paths, emphasising that mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, equality, mutual benefit, non-interference in internal affairs, and the principle of non-use or threat of use of force are the foundation for the stable development of international relations.”

It adds that: “Member states reaffirm the practical significance of promoting the building of a new type of international relations featuring mutual respect, fairness, justice, and win-win cooperation, as well as a community with a shared future for humanity, and conducting dialogue based on the concept of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future.’”

Regarding some key international issues at present, the Declaration affirms:

PALESTINE:

“Member states reaffirm their deep concern over the ongoing escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and strongly condemn the actions that have caused numerous civilian casualties and a humanitarian disaster in the Gaza Strip.

Continue reading Tianjin Declaration advances roadmap for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

China, Russia, Pakistan and Iran reject US return to Afghanistan

On September 25, 2025, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov chaired the fourth Informal Meeting on Afghanistan Between Foreign Ministers of China, Russia, Pakistan and Iran on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. China was represented by Special Envoy on Afghan Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Yue Xiaoyong.

The meeting adopted a joint statement that stresses the principle that the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Afghanistan must be respected. It also expresses unambiguous opposition to any attempt to reestablish foreign military bases in or around Afghanistan, especially by those who bear direct responsibility for the country’s current predicament.

China Daily noted: “At a time when certain voices in Washington have openly hinted at ‘reclaiming’ Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, the four countries’ collective position is both timely and significant.”

The “certain voices” refer specifically to remarks made by US President Donald Trump at a September 18 press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer during the fawning and obsequious state visit arranged by the British ruling class.

The interim Afghan government issued a statement on September 21 saying it firmly rejects recent US calls to reclaim the air base and reaffirming its unwavering commitment to national sovereignty. It urged Washington to honour its pledge in the 2020 Doha Agreement that there would be no military interference.

The following articles were originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry and China Daily.

Special Envoy on Afghan Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Yue Xiaoyong Represents China at the Fourth Informal Meeting on Afghanistan Between Foreign Ministers of China, Russia, Pakistan and Iran

September 26 (MFA) – On September 25, 2025, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov chaired the fourth Informal Meeting on Afghanistan Between Foreign Ministers of China, Russia, Pakistan and Iran during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Special Envoy on Afghan Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Yue Xiaoyong attended the meeting on behalf of China. The meeting discussed issues of common interest, such as the current situation in Afghanistan, and issued a Joint Statement.

Joint statement on Afghanistan shows regional resolve for peace

September 29 (China Daily) – On the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the foreign ministers of China, Russia, Pakistan and Iran held a meeting on Afghanistan and released a joint statement on Thursday. At a time when certain voices in Washington have openly hinted at “reclaiming” Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, the four countries’ collective position is both timely and significant.

The joint statement stresses the principle that the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Afghanistan must be respected. Equally important, it conveys unambiguous opposition to any attempt to reestablish foreign military bases in or around Afghanistan, especially by those who bear direct responsibility for the country’s current predicament. Such actions, the statement rightly warns, would not only be inconsistent with the aspirations of the Afghan people but also harmful to regional peace and stability.

The Afghan government issued a statement on Sept 21 saying it firmly rejects recent US calls to reclaim the air base and reaffirming its unwavering commitment to national sovereignty. It urged Washington to honor its pledge in the 2020 Doha Agreement that there would be no military interference.
Deputy spokesman of the Afghan administration Hamdullah Fitrat posted the statement on his X account, which highlighted that Afghanistan’s independence and territorial integrity remain paramount in all bilateral engagements, particularly with the US.

For over two decades, Afghanistan endured the heavy costs of military intervention. Instead of bringing peace or development, the prolonged presence of foreign forces deepened internal divisions, disrupted social cohesion and left the country with massive security and humanitarian challenges. It should be an international consensus that Afghanistan needs stability, reconstruction and genuine respect for its sovereignty — not a return of external military deployments.

The joint statement by the four regional stakeholders therefore reflects the voice of both justice and reason. It shows that the four countries are determined to support Afghanistan in pursuing an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned path to peace and development. It also demonstrates their consensus that the international community’s responsibility lies in providing humanitarian and reconstruction assistance rather than reviving old patterns of intervention.

When asked about the joint statement at a regular news conference on Friday in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated China’s firm position. As he pointed out, the statement fully illustrates the respect that Afghanistan’s neighboring countries have for its sovereignty, independence and national dignity. It also reveals the shared will of the peace-loving countries to help Afghanistan rebuild and remain stable.

As Guo stressed, as a close neighbor and a responsible major country, China is ready to work with the international community to continue extending assistance to Afghanistan and to play a constructive role in promoting its peace and reconstruction. China’s commitment to Afghanistan is rooted in principles, not in geopolitical calculations.

The joint statement makes clear that reintroducing military infrastructure into Afghanistan would serve no purpose other than to open old wounds, sow new divisions and destabilize the entire region. What the Afghan people need most today is relief from poverty, assistance in rebooting their economy and assurances of lasting peace — not the shadow of yet another round of military entanglement.

The quadripartite meeting in New York and its outcome also demonstrate the growing role of regional diplomacy in addressing global challenges. China, Russia, Pakistan and Iran have made their collective voice heard on the world stage. Their stance highlights that countries directly affected by Afghanistan’s instability are both willing and able to assume the responsibility for guiding regional peace and security.

The situation in Afghanistan remains complex, but the way forward should be clear. The international community must focus on helping the Afghan people overcome humanitarian difficulties, rebuild their economy and restore social stability and vitality.

The joint statement thus stands as a timely reminder that regional peace cannot be secured through military means, but through respect, assistance and cooperation. China and its partners have shown both resolve and vision in charting that path. The world should take note — and follow suit.

Cuba-China diplomatic relations: 65 years from history to the future

The leaders of China and Cuba exchanged messages on September 28, marking the 65th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the two socialist countries.

In his message to Miguel Diaz-Canel, First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and Cuban President, General Secretary and President Xi Jinping noted that 65 years ago, Cuba took the lead among Western Hemisphere countries in establishing diplomatic relations with New China, opening a new chapter in China-Cuba relations. Over the past 65 years, China-Cuba relations have continued to deepen, becoming a model of solidarity and cooperation between socialist countries as well as a model of sincere mutual assistance among developing countries.

Xi also recalled that not long ago, Diaz-Canel came to China to attend the commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. They met again and reached an important consensus on building a closer China-Cuba community with a shared future.

A joint congratulatory message by Diaz-Canel and General Raul Castro, leader of the Cuban Revolution, noted that for more than 60 years, Cuba-China relations have stood the test of time and continued to grow, with the two sides enjoying deep political mutual trust, close exchanges on socialist development, and a continually strengthened traditional brotherhood and friendly cooperation.

In a September 29 article, Granma, the official voice of the Cuban Communist Party (PCC), referenced the long history of friendship and solidarity between the two peoples, dating back to the wars of independence fought by the Cuban people in the latter part of the 19th century:

“On the century-long journey that unites the peoples of the two countries, the bonds have grown stronger and stronger: ‘There was not a single Cuban Chinese traitor, there was not a single Cuban Chinese deserter,’ reads the monument built in Havana in memory of those who fought for Cuba’s independence.

“The phrase on the metal plaque is still relevant today. In a sense, it can be interpreted as a prediction of the ties that were forged, and which have led to this friendship being described as ‘ironclad.’”

Granma further notes that, alongside the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1960:

“Ernesto Che Guevara’s visit to the Asian giant that same year was a key moment in the history of Chinese-Cuban ties and contributed to the development of a strategic relationship.

“In 1993, President Jiang Zemin would be the only head of state to visit the island, in a crucial context, after the collapse of the socialist camp… Years later, the Cuban government described the visit as ‘an invaluable gesture of brotherhood and confidence in our country’s capacity.’

“The images of Fidel on the Great Wall of China in 1995 are a fundamental part of the shared history. On December 1st, he walked 500 metres of the colossal structure, becoming the international head of state who had reached the highest point.”

Continue reading Cuba-China diplomatic relations: 65 years from history to the future

DPRK foreign minister: Consolidating and developing relations with China is an unwavering stance

Foreign Minister of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK)  Choe Son Hui visited China from September 27 to 30 at the invitation of her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. This visit followed on closely from that paid by top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un, September 2-4, to participate in the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Choe had also accompanied Kim Jong Un on that visit.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Choe on the morning of September 29.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, he said that China and the DPRK are neighbours connected by mountains and rivers, and share a time-honoured, ever-growing and profound friendship across generations. Earlier this month, General Secretary Xi Jinping held a meeting with General Secretary Kim Jong Un in Beijing, reaching important common understandings on deepening and developing China-DPRK friendly and cooperative relations. China has always viewed and advanced the development of China-DPRK relations from a strategic and long-term perspective. China is ready to work with the DPRK to implement the common understandings reached by the top leaders of the two Parties and two countries, further promote traditional friendship, strengthen strategic communication, and jointly advance the socialist cause of both countries for the greater benefit of the two peoples.

Choe Son Hui said that the recent meaningful and fruitful meeting between the top leaders of the two Parties and two countries has charted the course for the development of DPRK-China relations. Consolidating and developing relations with China is an unwavering stance of the DPRK and serves the fundamental interests of both countries and their peoples. She sincerely wishes China’s continuous and new achievements on the path toward advancing modernisation and national rejuvenation under the wise leadership of General Secretary Xi Jinping.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) added that Choe Son Hui said that the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un had a significant meeting and talks with General Secretary Xi Jinping days ago and reached an agreement on revitalising high-level visits between the two sides. She stressed that it is the invariable stand of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) and the government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to further develop the traditional DPRK-China relations of friendship and cooperation as required by the times.

She also referred to the struggle of the DPRK people who are making all efforts to successfully greet the Ninth Congress of the WPK after definitely concluding all the undertakings planned for this year, the last year of implementing the five-year plan for national economic development.

Continue reading DPRK foreign minister: Consolidating and developing relations with China is an unwavering stance

China strongly condemns US misuse of veto to shield Israel

On September 18, the United States yet again abused its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block a call for a ceasefire and an end to the carnage and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

In this regard, Chinese Ambassador to the UN, Fu Cong has made three strong statements decrying the actions of the United States and Israel and in support of the just and inalienable national rights of the Palestinian people.

Speaking at a United Nations General Assembly debate on the matter, held on October 1, he said:

“Time and again, the Security Council has sought to take actions, only to be forcefully blocked by the United States again and again. On September 18, the United States once again vetoed a Security Council draft resolution on Gaza. China expresses its deep disappointment and regret over this. If it were not for the United States’ repeated abuse of the veto, the Security Council’s response to the Gaza crisis would not have been so inadequate. If it were not for the United States’ shielding of Israel, Council resolutions and international law would not have been so flagrantly violated.”

He outlined three imperatives as follows:

  • A lasting ceasefire in Gaza must be achieved immediately. History has repeatedly demonstrated that military means is not the way out, and that one’s own security cannot be built on the insecurity of others.
  • The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza must be alleviated. Under the man-made blockade, Gaza is witnessing an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe. China reiterates that the weaponisation of humanitarian aid is unacceptable, the militarisation of aid distribution mechanism is unacceptable, and attacks on aid-seeking civilians and humanitarian workers are unacceptable.
  • The two-State solution must be implemented.  Both Gaza and the West Bank are inseparable parts of the Palestinian territory. Any post-war governance and reconstruction arrangements must adhere to the principle of Palestinians governing Palestine and respect the will of the Palestinian people.

At a UN Security Council briefing on September 29, he noted: “Last week, at the general debate of the 80th UN General Assembly, the high-level meeting on the implementation of the two-State solution, and other major events, the international community once again issued a powerful call for an immediate end to the killings, for saving lives, and for achieving peace. This is not merely the most fundamental requirement for upholding fairness and justice. More importantly, it is the bare minimum required by human morality and conscience.

Continue reading China strongly condemns US misuse of veto to shield Israel

Symbolic significance of Western states’ recognition of Palestine

In late September, several Western states, including Britain, France, Canada, Australia and others, formally recognised the State of Palestine. This follows similar moves over the last two years by Ireland, Norway and Spain, bringing the total to 157 UN member states. The recognition reflects growing outrage at Israel’s devastating assault on Gaza, which has killed more than 65,000 people and destroyed the bulk of the territory’s infrastructure. UN investigators have confirmed what is widely known: that Israel is committing genocide, deliberately targeting civilians and obstructing food supplies.

In the following article for Beijing Review, Carlos Martinez observes that China recognised the State of Palestine in 1988 – being one of the first countries to do so – and has long been a consistent supporter of Palestinian national rights. Since the beginning of the current genocide, Beijing has called for an immediate, comprehensive ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal, the restoration of humanitarian aid, and top-level negotiations towards a lasting peace based on Palestinian statehood.

Carlos notes that, last year, China hosted representatives of 14 Palestinian factions, including Hamas and Fatah, facilitating the Beijing Declaration on national unity. Chinese officials have also defended the Palestinian right to resist colonial occupation at the International Court of Justice.

The stark contrast between Washington’s obstructionism and China’s active promotion of peace underscores a broader global divergence: China is increasingly seen as a stabilising force advocating dialogue and justice, while the US is perceived as hegemonistic and destabilising.

The article concludes:

While wider recognition of Palestinian statehood represents a victory for Palestinians, it is a largely symbolic step. Gaza is experiencing the worst humanitarian crisis of the 21st century. Illegal settlements are expanding in the West Bank. Self-determination and national rights for Palestinians are still far from being realised.

The peoples of the world must continue to mobilise to demand an immediate ceasefire, an immediate withdrawal of Israeli troops, an end to the siege, a resumption of full humanitarian aid, and the earliest possible UN-level dialogue towards a just and lasting peace and the realisation of the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people.

In late September, a number of Western countries including Britain, Canada, Australia, France, Portugal, Luxembourg, Malta and Monaco announced their formal recognition of the State of Palestine.

This follows similar announcements by Ireland, Norway and Spain last year, meaning that 157 out of 193 United Nations member states now recognize Palestinian statehood, which was originally declared by the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) in 1988.

That these Western countries, longstanding supporters of Israel, have finally chosen to extend formal recognition to Palestine is a significant development, and reflects the growing international revulsion at Israel’s genocidal assault on Gaza, which has to date resulted in the deaths of at least 65,000 people, the majority of them women and children.

Gaza’s infrastructure has been systematically destroyed, with hospitals, schools, water and power supplies deliberately targeted. A new report by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory has found that Israel is responsible for the commission of genocide in Gaza. The report continues: “It is clear that there is an intent to destroy the Palestinians in Gaza through acts that meet the criteria set forth in the Genocide Convention.”

International bodies have also confirmed that Israel is deliberately obstructing the entry of food into Gaza and that, as a result, there is an ongoing famine in the territory.

The horrors of this war have shocked public opinion around the world, leading to a powerful global mass solidarity movement which has become too big to ignore. This has prompted governments in the West to reconsider their position on Palestinian statehood.

Continue reading Symbolic significance of Western states’ recognition of Palestine

China and Cuba show that a better world is not only possible – it is being built day by day

The opening session of our China Conference 2025, held in London on September 27, was addressed by senior diplomats from the embassies of the People’s Republic of China, Republic of Cuba, Russian Federation, Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Below we reprint the main body of the inspiring speech delivered by Pablo Arturo Ginarte Sampedro, First Secretary of the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba. He notes that: “This year we celebrate a momentous milestone: the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the People’s Republic of China. In 1960, revolutionary Cuba became the first nation in the Western Hemisphere to recognise the People’s Republic. That decision was an act of sovereignty and principle, and it laid the foundation for what has become an unbreakable, ironclad friendship. That friendship was forged by the historic leaders of our revolutions, Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz and Chairman Mao Zedong.”

It is a profound honor to address you today from this historic place, Bolívar Hall, a beacon of Latin American culture and resistance here in London, graciously hosted by our dear Venezuelan comrades. On behalf of the people and government of the Republic of Cuba, I bring you the warmest, most fraternal greetings.

This year we celebrate a momentous milestone: the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the People’s Republic of China. In 1960, revolutionary Cuba became the first nation in the Western Hemisphere to recognise the People’s Republic. That decision was an act of sovereignty and principle, and it laid the foundation for what has become an unbreakable, ironclad friendship.

That friendship was forged by the historic leaders of our revolutions, Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz and Chairman Mao Zedong. From those early days it has grown into a comprehensive strategic partnership. Today we work hand in hand to build a China-Cuba community with a shared future.

Our partnership extends well beyond trade and infrastructure. Equally important is our collaboration in science and technology. Together we are building sovereign scientific capacity in the Global South so the benefits of the fourth industrial revolution serve people, not only the profits of a few multinational corporations. This scientific solidarity is essential for achieving genuine independence in the 21st century.

For Cuba, these are not abstract ideals. For more than 60 years my country has resisted the most brutal and prolonged economic, commercial, and financial blockade in human history, a criminal policy imposed by the United States. In that struggle our friendship with China has been a vital pillar of support. Through trade, investment, and solidarity, China has offered a crucial lifeline and shown the world a model of relations based on sincere mutual assistance rather than imperial domination.

Continue reading China and Cuba show that a better world is not only possible – it is being built day by day

China’s Premier champions peace, justice and development at UN General Assembly

Chinese Premier Li Qiang spoke in the general debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 26.

He began by noting that: “This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. It is also the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations (UN). Eighty years ago, fascism was defeated in fearless battles by countless heroic men and women around the world, and the UN was created upon their ideal of a world free of war.

“An important outcome of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, the UN was born out of a deep reflection on the scourge of two world wars. Its founding initiated a historic experiment to escape the law of the jungle, and marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey, i.e. building the postwar international order and pursuing peace and development. The past 80 years have been tortuous but purposeful.”

The last eight decades, he continued, have seen, “human society leapfrog from the age of electricity and computers into a digital intelligence era. While the world we live in has changed enormously, the ideal of making it a better place remains unchanged.”

In this regard he identified three key aspects:

  • Peace and development are the strongest aspirations shared by the people of all countries. Throughout history, while the shadows of war and conflict have never fully gone away, no force has ever stopped humanity in its quest for peace and development. Having gone through two world wars, we must never forget the bitter lessons learned through bloodshed and loss of lives.
  • Solidarity and cooperation are the most powerful drivers for human progress. In the ferocious years of the World Anti-Fascist War, countries with different social systems, histories and cultures rose above their differences, fought side by side, and prevailed together. All this proves a simple yet powerful point – solidarity lifts everyone up, while division drags all down.
  • Fairness and justice are the most important values pursued by the international community. In the past 80 years, the world saw the demise of the old colonial system, the establishment of the existing international order, and the strengthening of international rule of law. History keeps reminding us that when might dictates right, the world risks division and regression; when fairness and justice prevail, societies enjoy stability and thrive. Should the era of the law of the jungle return and the weak be left as prey to the strong, human society would face even more bloodshed and brutality.

Turning to the present situation, he made this appeal:

“At present, the world has entered a new period of turbulence and transformation. Unilateralism and Cold War mentality are resurfacing, the international rules and order built over the past 80 years are under serious challenge, and the once-effective international system is constantly disrupted. The various problems induced are distressing and worrying. Humanity has once again come to a crossroads. Anyone who cares about the state of affairs in the world would want to ask: Why couldn’t we humans, having emerged from tribulations, adopt a greater sense of conscience and rationality, and treat each other with kindness and coexist in peace? How could we, in the face of deplorable incidents such as humanitarian disasters, turn a blind eye to atrocities that trample blatantly on fairness and justice and sit on our hands? How could we, when confronted with unscrupulous acts of hegemonism and bullying, remain silent and submissive for fear of might?”

Li explained that the Global Governance Initiative proposed at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s Tianjin Summit at the beginning of September underscores the principles of adhering to sovereign equality, abiding by international rule of law, practicing multilateralism, advocating the people-centred approach and focusing on taking real actions. China, he said, is ready to take coordinated and effective actions together with all sides to offer more concrete solutions and promote world peace and development.

Continue reading China’s Premier champions peace, justice and development at UN General Assembly

Chinese leaders meet guests from Brazil, Timor-Leste, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania and Greece

Besides the 26 heads of state and government, China’s September 3 commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese people’s war of resistance against Japanese aggression and the world anti-fascist war, was also attended by many other prominent current and former state leaders from around the world, including those from Brazil, Timor-Leste, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania and Greece.

On September 4, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Chief Advisor to the Presidency of Brazil Celso Luiz Nunes Amorim.

Wang Yi expressed welcome for Celso Luiz Nunes Amorim’s attendance at the commemoration on behalf of the Brazilian government. Under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Brazil relations have continuously reached new heights. Both sides should steadfastly work together to build a China-Brazil community with a shared future for a more just world and a more sustainable planet, setting an example of the strength through unity among major countries of the Global South.

He said that the current world landscape is undergoing complex changes, with the resurgence of unilateralism undermining the foundation of multilateralism and posing severe challenges to the vast number of developing countries. President Xi Jinping proposed the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Plus meeting on September 1,  in response to the new changes in the international situation, aiming to address global challenges more effectively.

China appreciates Brazil’s earnest performance of its duties as the BRICS chair and is ready to work with Brazil to consolidate the positive momentum of BRICS, promote greater communication and coordination among BRICS countries on major issues, and stand firm on common positions.

Celso Luiz Nunes Amorim handed over the letter from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to President Xi Jinping, expressing that the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War was deeply moving, and that releasing pigeons is to convey the message of peace. He congratulated China on the complete success of the event. The Chinese people, faced with foreign aggression, showed unyielding resilience and rose to fight back, making significant historical contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. Given the current context in which certain countries disregard international rules, abuse tariffs, and undermine the multilateral trading system, the importance of strengthening unity and cooperation among the Global South and BRICS countries is becoming increasingly prominent. Against this backdrop, China’s proposal of the GGI is of great significance.

On September 5, Zhao Leji, Chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, held talks with Maria Fernanda Lay, President of the National Parliament of Timor-Leste. He said that China firmly supports Timor-Leste in following a development path suited to its own national conditions while safeguarding its national sovereignty, security and development interests.

Noting that the NPC of China and the National Parliament of Timor-Leste have maintained friendly exchanges for a long time, Zhao said the NPC is willing to further enhance exchanges and cooperation among senior members of the legislative bodies and lawmakers of the two countries, deepen experience sharing on topics such as state governance, legislation and supervision, and strengthen coordination within multilateral frameworks to present a common voice of the Global South.

Continue reading Chinese leaders meet guests from Brazil, Timor-Leste, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania and Greece

Portugal reinforces sound relations with China

Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro was the first foreign head of government to visit China following the September 3 commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

On September 9 he met with President Xi Jinping, who said that China and Portugal have achieved fruitful outcomes in cooperation across various fields in recent years, setting a model of mutual respect and mutual benefit for countries with different social systems and national conditions. Xi called on the two sides to carry forward the traditional friendship, maintain mutual trust and support, deepen the alignment of development strategies, and expand practical cooperation in areas such as innovation, green development, maritime affairs and healthcare.

He noted that the two sides should give full play to Macao’s unique role as a bridge and make good use of mechanisms like the Forum for Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes at a higher level. [In addition to China and Portugal this Forum, with its headquarters in Macao, also includes Angola, Brazil, Cabo Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe and Timor-Leste.) They should also encourage exchanges in culture, education, tourism and scientific research, as well as deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges.

Montenegro said the successful practice in Macao over the past 25 years fully demonstrates that the Portuguese government made the right decision. Portugal will continue to adhere to the one-China policy and will not forget the valuable support and assistance provided by China during the most difficult period of Portugal’s economy. (This refers to the economic support that China extended to Portugal during the 2009 Eurozone crisis.)

Despite periodic changes in its domestic political situation, Portugal stands out as a European country that consistently maintains positive relations with China. Moreover, the amicable way in which the issue of the former Portuguese colony of Macao has been resolved, and the way this special administrative region of the People’s Republic continues to act as a bridge not only between China and Portugal, but also to all Portuguese speaking countries, stands in stark contrast to British imperialism’s persistent if futile meddling in Hong Kong.

This understanding permeated the reactions of a number of Chinese scholars to Montenegro’s visit.

Continue reading Portugal reinforces sound relations with China

Xi Jinping meets the leaders of Zimbabwe, Slovakia, Congo, Serbia and Indonesia

Chinese President Xi Jinping held a series of meetings on September 4 with national leaders who had come to Beijing to attend the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

In the morning Xi Jinping met with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The two heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a China-Zimbabwe all-weather community with a shared future.

President Xi noted that this year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Zimbabwe, and the two countries’ “five-star ironclad” friendship has steadily deepened, setting an example for solidarity and coordination between China and Africa, and for the Global South. China will continue to firmly support Zimbabwe in independently pursuing a development path suited to its conditions, oppose external interference and illegal sanctions, and safeguard the shared interests of both countries and the broader Global South.

President Xi emphasised that the two sides should seize the opportunity presented by the elevation of bilateral relations to develop innovative approaches to cooperation and broaden cooperation in infrastructure, mining, investment, trade, and so on, thereby raising the quality and upgrading the substance of cooperation between the two countries. China stands ready to work with Zimbabwe to advance the implementation of the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and support Zimbabwe’s economic and social development.

President Mnangagwa said that he is delighted to attend the historic commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. The international community must never forget China’s important contribution to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and must uphold a correct historical perspective on WWII. After 45 years of development, Zimbabwe-China relations have become increasingly mature and resilient. Zimbabwe looks forward to jointly building an all-weather community with a shared future with China and will unwaveringly adhere to the one-China principle, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in all fields, and work for greater development of the bilateral relationship, bringing greater benefits to the people of the two countries.

At noon Xi met with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.

The Chinese President noted that both China and Slovakia had made tremendous national sacrifices and significant historical contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. At a time when the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, the international community needs solidarity and cooperation more than ever. Both sides should uphold the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity, practice true multilateralism, work for the reform and improvement of the global governance system and make greater contributions to world peace and development.

President Xi emphasised that China highly appreciates Slovakia’s commitment to friendly relations with China and is ready to work with Slovakia to maintain close high-level exchanges, firmly support each other’s chosen development path, strengthen experience sharing on governance, and continuously deepen mutual political trust. President Xi expressed his hope for Slovakia to continue playing a positive role in promoting the sound and steady development of China-EU relations.

Prime Minister Fico said that China made significant contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and to upholding world peace. The successful commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression sends a strong message to the world that justice will prevail, peace will prevail, and the people will prevail, and this is truly impressive. He said it is an honour to be invited to China to witness this grand event in person.

Slovakia was the only member state of NATO and the EU to be represented at the commemoration at head of government level, although Hungary and Bulgaria also sent senior representatives.

In the afternoon, Xi met with President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso. The two heads of state announced the elevation of the bilateral relationship to a high-level community with a shared future between China and the Republic of the Congo.

President Xi noted that the relationship between China and the Republic of the Congo exemplifies China-Africa friendship. The Republic of the Congo is the first country to reach an early harvest arrangement with China under the agreement on economic partnership for shared development and will soon benefit from China’s zero-tariff treatment, opening a new chapter in bilateral trade and investment cooperation.

President Xi noted that since assuming the role of African co-chair of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the Republic of the Congo has been working actively together with China to promote the implementation of the outcomes of the Beijing Summit and has achieved commendable results. China stands ready to work with African countries to effectively carry out the ten partnership actions and foster new growth drivers in green industries, e-commerce and digital payments, science and technology, and artificial intelligence, taking China-Africa cooperation to even greater heights. In the current international environment of transformation and turbulence, China and Africa, as important members of the Global South, must shoulder the historic responsibility of upholding international fairness and justice, safeguarding world peace, and promoting common development, and work hand in hand to build a community with a shared future for humanity.

Continue reading Xi Jinping meets the leaders of Zimbabwe, Slovakia, Congo, Serbia and Indonesia

China-Vietnam relations of comrades and brothers underlined in three high-level meetings

The special relations of comrades as well as brothers between China and Vietnam, as Vietnamese communist leader Ho Chi Minh once described it in a poem, were highlighted by three recent overlapping top level exchanges between the two socialist neighbours.

From August 31-September 2, Zhao Leji, Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), visited Vietnam at the invitation of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee and Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam Tran Thanh Man, leading a party and state delegation to events marking the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

When meeting with General Secretary of the CPV Central Committee To Lam, Zhao Leji conveyed General Secretary Xi Jinping’s cordial greetings and extended warm congratulations on the historic achievements made in the cause of the CPV and the country over the past 80 years. Zhao Leji stated that under the new circumstances, China is ready to work with Vietnam to fully implement the important common understandings reached between the top leaders of the two Parties and  jointly advance the socialist modernisation endeavours in their respective countries, and accelerate the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

To Lam asked Zhao Leji to convey his sincere greetings to General Secretary Xi Jinping and expressed his gratitude for the tremendous assistance provided by China during various periods of Vietnam’s revolution and development. He said that under the leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, China has achieved remarkable accomplishments in development and has become a main driving force of global economic growth.

When meeting with Vietnamese President Luong Cuong, Zhao Leji conveyed President Xi Jinping’s best wishes to him, noting that China and Vietnam should respond to external uncertainties with the strengths of the socialist system, uphold and strengthen the leadership of the Communist Party, firmly support each other’s reform and development endeavours, leverage the exemplary role of mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation between China and Vietnam, jointly resist the countercurrents of unilateralism and protectionism, and defend international fairness and justice as well as the common interests of developing countries.

Zhao Leji attended the ceremony held at the Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi marking the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and watched the military parade, mass pageantry and grand cultural performances. The Guard of Honour of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army was invited to participate in the military parade. The full text of General Secretary To Lam’s speech on the occasion may be read here.

Zhao Leji also paid respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and visited Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House.

Around 400 military personnel from the armed forces of China, Russia, Laos, and Cambodia took part in the military parade. Receiving them on August 29, Deputy Minister of National Defence Sen. Lt. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien extended a warm welcome and expressed gratitude to the foreign troops for their participation. He commended their determination and training efforts, noting their swift integration into rehearsals alongside the Vietnamese forces. Since their arrival, the delegations had received warm attention from both local leaders and the public, he noted.

From August 31-September 1, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh visited Tianjin to attend the meetings of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Continue reading China-Vietnam relations of comrades and brothers underlined in three high-level meetings

China and Cuba build on the friendship established by Chairman Mao and Fidel Castro

On the morning of September 4,  General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and President Xi Jinping met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing with First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Cuban Communist Party (PCC) and President of the Republic of Cuba Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez who was in China for the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

President Xi pointed out that in recent years the building of a China-Cuba community with a shared future has deepened with tangible outcomes, which has become a vivid symbol of the ironclad friendship between the two parties and the two countries. This year marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Cuba. Both sides should take this opportunity to bring China-Cuba relations to a higher level and bring more benefits to the two peoples.

President Díaz-Canel noted that the commemorative events marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression had a solemn and lively atmosphere and are of great historic significance. China’s important contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War will never be forgotten. Cuba was the first country in Latin America to build a bilateral community with a shared future with China. The relations between the two Parties and two countries are close, and the friendship is rock-solid.

The two sides released the Joint Statement between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Cuba on Accelerating the Construction of the China-Cuba Community with a Shared Future and signed multiple bilateral cooperation documents in such fields as Belt and Road cooperation, practical cooperation, the Global Security Initiative, sub-national agricultural cooperation, and artificial intelligence.

According to the joint statement: “The two Heads of State highly value the traditional friendship between the Republic of Cuba and the People’s Republic of China… and the fruitful results achieved in the development of relations and cooperation in various fields in the 65 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations. Cuba and China are good friends, good comrades and good brothers. The friendship between Cuba and China was forged by the historical leaders of the two countries, represented by Mao Zedong and Fidel Castro Ruz.”

It notes that, “The Heads of State emphasise that the relationship between Cuba and China is at its most favourable historical point. They reaffirm their strong political commitment to advancing bilateral relations by accelerating the development of a Cuba-China Community of Shared Future. The two leaders engaged in a comprehensive exchange of views on party and country relations, reaching significant consensus. They agree to continue strengthening strategic communication, increasing high-level exchanges, deepening both bilateral and multilateral political cooperation, and promoting collaboration at all levels and in all areas. They also commit to further enhancing the special friendly relations between China and Cuba in the New Era and to speeding up the establishment of the Cuba-China Community of Shared Future.”

The Cuban side highly values the outstanding theoretical and practical contributions of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for the New Era and hopes that the Chinese people will continue to make new and greater achievements in building socialism under the firm leadership of Comrade Xi Jinping and the CPC.

The Chinese side highly values and firmly supports the fact that, under the leadership of the PCC, the Cuban people persevere on the path of socialism and continuously explore a development model in accordance with their own national conditions, overcoming all difficulties. The Chinese side reaffirms its willingness to deepen friendship, strengthen solidarity and expand cooperation in all fields with the Cuban side.

The Chinese side reaffirms its firm support for the Cuban people in their struggle to defend their national sovereignty against the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States. The unjust and illegal blockade of the United States harms the right to life of the Cuban people and constitutes the main obstacle to Cuba’s development. The Chinese side once again calls on the United States to remove Cuba from the arbitrary “list of state sponsors of terrorism.”

Both sides agree to continue strengthening the special ties between the CPC and the PCC, as the cornerstone of relations between the two countries.

Both sides agree to deepen cooperation in science, technology and innovation in the fields of cybersecurity, nanotechnology, life sciences, biomedicine, food production and agrotechnology, brain sciences, biodiversity, climate change, energy and environment, digital transformation, robotics and automation.

Continue reading China and Cuba build on the friendship established by Chairman Mao and Fidel Castro

Xi meets Lao president

On September 4, Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese President, met with Thongloun Sisoulith, General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee and Lao President, in Beijing.

Thongloun was in China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, where his country was admitted as a SCO Partner, and for the commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as for a working visit.

Xi stressed that given the complex and profound changes in the international and regional landscape, the two sides need to view and approach China-Laos relations from a long-term and strategic perspective and firmly support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests and major concerns. They need to focus on the operation of the China-Laos Railway and development along the route to upgrade key projects, Xi said, adding that they should also deepen cooperation in defence, law enforcement and security, and other fields.

Thongloun said that the Laos-China relationship is now at its best in history, and Laos is ready to continue working with China to implement the new five-year action plan on building a Laos-China community with a shared future.

Between his participation in the SCO meetings, August 31-September 1, and the commemoration of the war victory, September 3, Thongloun visited Hanoi to participate in the grand ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution (August 19, 1945 – 2025) and the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam (September 2, 1945 – 2025), which was held at the historic Ba Dinh Square in the Vietnamese capital on the morning of September 2.

The Vietnamese newspaper Nhân Dân reported that To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, welcomed the visit of the Lao leader describing it as a testament to the rare, loyal, and special solidarity between the two parties and nations. He noted that the participation of Lao People’s Army soldiers in the National Day parade was a great encouragement to Viet Nam.

The Vietnamese party leader stressed that every victory in Vietnam’s revolutionary cause has been closely tied to the heartfelt support of the Lao party, state, and people. He affirmed that Vietnam deeply treasures this valuable assistance, from the years of resistance in the past to the cause of national construction and defence at present, and that Vietnam will do its utmost, together with Laos, to preserve and further strengthen their special relationship.

For his part, the Lao leader offered congratulations to Vietnam, noting that the success of the August Revolution and the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam in 1945 greatly inspired Laos’s national liberation and energised revolutionary and peace movements among the oppressed peoples worldwide.

Reporting the grand ceremony, Nhân Dân, noted that international guests included:

  • Thongloun Sisoulith, General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and President of Laos
  • Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian People’s Party and President of the Senate of Cambodia
  • Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba and President of Cuba
  •  Zhao Leji, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress
  • Igor Sergeenko, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Belarus;
  • And Vladimir Vladimirovich Yakushev, Secretary of the General Council of the United Russia Party and First Vice Chairman of the Federation Council of the Russian Federal Assembly.
  • Also present were leaders of political parties including the General Secretary of the United Left Movement Party of the Dominican Republic and the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Britain.

And in a related development, Cuban President and First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez paid a state visit to Laos, September 6-7, following his own visits to Vietnam and China.

The Lao News Agency KPL reported that President Thongloun warmly welcomed the Cuban delegation and highly valued the visit, noting that it marked the third time Comrade Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez had visited the Lao PDR. The two leaders expressed satisfaction that relations between the parties, states, and peoples of Laos and Cuba have continued to strengthen as strategic partners bound by common ideals.

On behalf of the Lao party, government, and people, Comrade Thongloun expressed sincere gratitude for the invaluable support extended by Cuba during the Lao people’s national liberation struggle and throughout the subsequent period of national development. He also invited Comrade Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez to participate in the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Lao PDR at the end of 2025.

Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to further expanding the traditional friendship and cooperation established by President Kaysone Phomvihane and President Fidel Castro and thanked the Lao PDR for its continued encouragement and support for Cuba in overcoming challenges.

The following article was originally published on the website of China’s State Council Information Office.

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, met with Thongloun Sisoulith, general secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee and Lao president, in Beijing on Thursday.

Thongloun is in China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit 2025, commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, and a working visit.

Xi stressed that given the complex and profound changes in the international and regional landscape, the two sides need to view and approach China-Laos relations from a long-term and strategic perspective, and firmly support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests and major concerns.

China is ready to deepen exchanges with Laos on experience in party and state governance, Xi said.

The two sides need to focus on the operation of the China-Laos Railway and development along the route to upgrade key projects, Xi said, adding that they should also deepen cooperation in defense, law enforcement and security, and other fields.

Thongloun said that the Laos-China relationship is now at its best in history, and Laos is ready to continue working with China to implement the new five-year action plan on building a Laos-China community with a shared future.

Laos fully supports the Global Governance Initiative proposed by General Secretary Xi Jinping and stands ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China on the international stage, Thongloun said.

China, Russia and Mongolia strengthen three-way friendship in Beijing

Chinese President Xi Jinping held important meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa on the morning of September 2. Both men were in China to attend the meetings of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) along with the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the Chinese people’s victory in the war to resist Japanese aggression and the world anti-fascist war.

President Xi Jinping noted that the China-Russia relationship, having stood the test of changes in the world, has become a prime example of relations between two major countries featuring everlasting good-neighbourliness and friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination, and mutual benefit, cooperation and win-win. Staying committed to their abiding aspirations and maintaining resolve, the two sides have produced fruitful outcomes in their cooperation across the board. The Chinese side will work with the Russian side to maintain close high-level exchanges, support each other’s development and rejuvenation, coordinate positions on matters pertaining to each other’s core interests and major concerns in a timely manner, and achieve greater progress in China-Russia relations. The two sides should guide their cooperation through large and especially more flagship projects and promote convergence of interests at a deeper level.

Xi Jinping observed that the Chinese and Russian presidents attending the commemorations of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War held in each other’s countries fully demonstrates the sense of responsibility of major countries as the key victorious nations of World War II and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and speaks to their firm determination to safeguard the fruits of the victory in World War II and uphold a correct historical perspective on the War. Both China and Russia emphasise sovereign equality, international rule of law, and multilateralism. The two sides should continue to step up coordination and cooperation at the UN, the SCO, the BRICS, the G20 and other multilateral platforms, and join hands in building a community with a shared future for humanity.

President Putin noted that guided by President Xi and himself, the bilateral relationship has been highly strategic and reached a historic high. President Xi paid a state visit to Russia and attended the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War last May. President Putin said that he will attend the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression tomorrow. By doing so, the two countries underscore to the world that they helped each other and fought side by side in the World Anti-Fascist War and played critical roles in its victory in both main European and Eastern theatres, and they are firmly committed to jointly upholding the truth of history and safeguarding the fruits of the victory in World War II. The solidarity and cooperation between Russia and China in the World Anti-Fascist War has laid a solid foundation for the development of their relations in the new era.

The Russian President’s website further quoted him as saying: “Our ancestors, fathers and grandfathers paid an enormous price for peace and freedom. We do not forget this – we remember. It is the foundation, the bedrock of our achievements today and in the future.”

In his meeting with Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, President Xi noted that China and Mongolia, as friendly neighbours connected by mountains and rivers, are enjoying ever deepening exchanges and cooperation across various fields, with multiple key projects making positive progress. The two sides should be guided by the vision of building a China-Mongolia community with a shared future, consolidate strategic mutual trust, deepen development integration, and bring the two peoples closer, so as to inject sustained momentum into their comprehensive strategic partnership. He stressed that no matter how the international landscape may evolve, China will remain a trustworthy and reliable partner for Mongolia

President Khurelsukh said that it is a priority of Mongolia’s foreign policy to maintain permanent good-neighbourly friendship and pursue sustainable, mutually beneficial cooperation with China. Mongolia highly commends China’s commitment to the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness in pursuing its neighbourhood diplomacy. The Global Governance Initiative (GGI) proposed by President Xi Jinping advocates for a UN-centred international governance system that ensures equal participation of all developing countries. Mongolia warmly applauds this initiative and is ready to work with China to provide mutual support and pursue close cooperation on the global stage to safeguard the common interests of developing countries.

Continue reading China, Russia and Mongolia strengthen three-way friendship in Beijing