Category: International relations

China extends a hand of friendship to Afghanistan

Following his successful visit to India, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi flew to Kabul, Afghanistan, for a series of meetings on August 20.

Wang Yi participated in the Sixth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue together with Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi and Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar.

Wang Yi said that since the trilateral foreign ministers’ dialogue mechanism was resumed in Tunxi, Anhui Province in 2022, the three sides, based on the principles of mutual respect, equal-footed consultation and mutual benefit, have continuously advanced cooperation in the fields of politics, development and security, safeguarded regional peace and tranquility, and responded to various risks and challenges. He added that China is ready to work with Afghanistan and Pakistan to deepen good-neighbourliness and mutual trust, render mutual understanding and support on issues concerning each other’s core interests, and firmly oppose interference by any external forces in the region, as well as any organisation or individual engaging in acts within their countries that undermine the national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the other sides.

He noted that China and Pakistan have been at the forefront of the international community and regional neighbours in helping Afghanistan restabilise and rebuild the country and expand its foreign exchanges. China will continue to uphold justice for Afghanistan on multilateral occasions, encourage the international community to engage with Afghanistan in a constructive manner, and support Afghanistan in advancing the normalisation of its diplomatic relations. The three sides should expand development cooperation, increase trade and investment exchanges, strengthen the building of connectivity networks, and enhance people-to-people bonds. And they should improve the security dialogue mechanism, deepen law enforcement and security cooperation, intensify efforts to combat transnational terrorist activities, and eradicate the breeding ground of terrorism by addressing both symptoms and root causes on the basis of consensus. It is important to uphold the principle of indivisible security, respect each other’s legitimate security concerns, and blaze a path of cooperative and common security.

 Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi welcomed the attendance of the Chinese and Pakistani foreign ministers at the dialogue and thanked China and Pakistan for their steadfast support for Afghanistan on the international stage. He said that given the profound changes in the current international and regional situation, Afghanistan hopes to take this meeting as an opportunity to deepen friendly relations, strengthen coordination and collaboration, and work for greater development of trilateral cooperation.

Mohammad Ishaq Dar said that Pakistan, China and Afghanistan share close historical, cultural and economic ties, and that trilateral cooperation enjoys great potential. The three sides should jointly advance their partnership, and enhance cooperation in trade, the Belt and Road Initiative, connectivity, counter-terrorism and other areas to achieve common development. As a neighbouring country of Afghanistan, Pakistan is willing to make greater contributions to the peace process in Afghanistan and to improving the livelihood of the Afghan people. Pakistan also called for the unfreezing of Afghanistan’s overseas assets.

Meeting with Wang Yi, Afghan Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund asked him to convey his cordial greetings to Chinese leaders. He said that the Chinese government and people have always held a friendly and positive attitude towards Afghanistan, and thanked China for speaking up for Afghanistan on the international stage. China is a force for justice in the world and is consistently committed to friendly cooperation with Afghanistan and other countries for common development and progress. History has shown that those countries attempting to interfere in other nations’ affairs will only suffer the consequences, while those pursuing friendly policies will achieve success. This is China’s unique strength. Afghanistan does not wish to and will not create trouble for other countries. Afghanistan looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China to advance a positive and sustainable friendly relationship. Afghanistan will never allow any force to use its territory to threaten China and will always stand firmly with China.

Wang Yi conveyed the kind greetings of the Chinese leaders and said that China-Afghanistan exchanges have spanned thousands of years, and the two countries have always maintained friendly relations. He noted that throughout history, imperialists, colonialists and hegemonists have all attempted to invade Afghanistan but all have failed, and such schemes will not succeed in the future. The world should not be one where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. Every country, including Afghanistan, has the right to achieve development and revitalisation.

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Wang Yi’s visit turns the corner on relations with India

As we recently noted, relations between China and India have lately been seeing significant improvement. This process has now been qualitatively accelerated with the August 18-20 New Delhi visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

On August 19, Wang Yi met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prime Minister Modi asked Wang Yi to convey his cordial greetings to President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang and expressed his anticipation of visiting China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Tianjin Summit, to be held end August, and meet with President Xi Jinping. (This will be Modi’s first visit to China in seven years.) India will fully support China’s work as the rotating chair of the SCO to ensure the complete success of the Summit.

The Prime Minister said that both India and China are ancient civilisations, and they have enjoyed a long history of friendly exchanges. The meeting between the leaders of the two countries at the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, last October marked a turning point for the improvement and development of bilateral relations. India and China are partners, not rivals, and are facing the common task of accelerating development. The two sides should also properly manage and settle boundary questions, so that differences will not evolve into disputes.

Modi added that that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and China. Both sides should view bilateral relations from a long-term perspective. India-China cooperation is indispensable for the advent of an Asian century. Working hand in hand, the two sides will contribute to world development and benefit all humanity.

Wang Yi said that the successful meeting between the leaders of the two countries in Kazan last October has provided guidance for the resumption and a new start for China-India relations. This has not come by easily and should be cherished. He added that his visit to India, upon invitation, to attend the Talks Between the Special Representatives of China and India on the Boundary Question also serves to prepare for high-level exchanges between the two countries. Through comprehensive and in-depth communication, in terms of bilateral relations, the two sides have agreed on restarting dialogue mechanisms across various fields, deepening mutually beneficial cooperation, upholding multilateralism, jointly addressing global challenges, and opposing unilateralism and bullying acts. On boundary questions, the two sides reached new consensus on conducting normalised management and control, maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas, properly handling sensitive issues, and initiating boundary delimitation negotiations in areas where the conditions are met.

Continue reading Wang Yi’s visit turns the corner on relations with India

Myanmar peace and reconciliation discussed in four-party talks

During the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, which was held in Anning, in China’s southwestern Yunnan province, on August 15 Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also held an important quadrilateral meeting on the sidelines, together with Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Myanmar Foreign Minister Than Swe, and Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, which was focused on the situation in Myanmar and its implications for the country’s immediate neighbours.

Wang Yi said that China, Laos, and Thailand, as friendly neighbours of Myanmar, have a better understanding of Myanmar’s unique national conditions and are more eager to see Myanmar restore stability, achieve national reconciliation, hold an open and fair general election, and pursue a development path suited to its national conditions and supported by its people. Since the first quadrilateral meeting last year, the situation in Myanmar has generally stabilised, and efforts are underway to advance post-earthquake reconstruction and safeguard its sovereignty, independence and national stability. He called for adhering to a “Myanmar-led, Myanmar-owned” approach, supporting the choices of the Myanmar people, and resolving differences through dialogue. The Chinese Foreign Minister also stressed the importance of mediation by ASEAN (the Association of South East Asian Nations) and assistance from neighbouring countries, with ASEAN serving as the main channel, while also giving full play to mechanisms like the Informal Discussion between the Foreign Ministers of China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand and the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting among the Neighbouring Countries of Myanmar. He further urged prioritising people’s livelihoods and development, supporting Myanmar in improving people’s well-being and post-earthquake reconstruction, and promoting cooperation in various fields for people’s benefit, while warning against improper interference by external forces that could undermine regional stability.

The Myanmar side expressed gratitude for the support and assistance provided by China, Laos and Thailand, as friendly neighbouring countries, in addressing challenges. It reiterated its commitment to advancing the domestic peace and reconciliation process through political dialogue and stated that it is actively preparing for an open and transparent general election at the end of the year to return power to the people.

The Lao side expressed its support for a “Myanmar-led, Myanmar-owned” political process and for Myanmar’s general election to achieve peace, stability and national reconciliation.

The Thai side stated that the Myanmar issue is an internal affair of the country, and the international community should respect the choices of the Myanmar people.

The following article was originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

On August 15, 2025, China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand held an informal discussion between foreign ministers in Anning, Yunnan. Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Foreign Minister of Myanmar Than Swe, and Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa were present.

Wang Yi said that China, Laos, and Thailand, as friendly neighbors of Myanmar, have a better understanding of Myanmar’s unique national conditions and are more eager to see Myanmar restore stability, achieve national reconciliation, hold an open and fair general election, and pursue a development path suited to its national conditions and supported by its people. Since the first quadrilateral meeting last year, the situation in Myanmar has generally stabilized, and efforts are underway to advance post-earthquake reconstruction and safeguard its sovereignty, independence and national stability. Wang Yi called for adhering to a “Myanmar-led, Myanmar-owned” approach, supporting the choices of the Myanmar people, and resolving differences through dialogue. Wang Yi stressed the importance of mediation by ASEAN and assistance from neighboring countries, with ASEAN serving as the main channel, while also giving full play to mechanisms like the Informal Discussion between the Foreign Ministers of China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand and the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting among the Neighboring Countries of Myanmar. He also urged prioritizing people’s livelihoods and development, supporting Myanmar in improving people’s well-being and post-earthquake reconstruction, and promoting cooperation in various fields for people’s benefit, while warning against improper interference by external forces that could undermine regional stability.

The Myanmar side briefed on the domestic situation and preparations for the upcoming general election, stating that since the last meeting, the domestic situation in Myanmar has generally deescalated and stabilized. The Myanmar side expressed gratitude for the support and assistance provided by China, Laos and Thailand, as friendly neighboring countries, in addressing challenges. The Myanmar side reiterated its commitment to advancing domestic peace and reconciliation process through political dialogue, and stated that it is actively preparing for an open and transparent general election at the end of the year to return power to the people.

The Lao side expressed its support for a “Myanmar-led, Myanmar-owned” political process and for Myanmar’s general election to achieve peace, stability and national reconciliation.

The Thai side stated that the Myanmar issue is an internal affair of the country, and the international community should respect the choices of the Myanmar people. The general election is an important step in Myanmar’s political transition. Thailand is willing to work with other ASEAN countries to provide support and assistance for the smooth progress of Myanmar’s general election based on the principle of non-interference in internal affairs.

The four foreign ministers exchanged views on joint efforts to combat cross-border crimes. Wang Yi pointed out that combating cross-border crimes bears on the well-being and safety of the people, represents a common concern of the four countries, and requires coordinated action. Since the last meeting, the four parties have closely cooperated, strengthened border control, and achieved notable results in jointly combating cross-border crimes. However, the regional security situation is still not optimistic, requiring continued coordinated efforts. First, strengthen conceptual guidance and institutional building to implement the Global Security Initiative. Second, strengthen joint operations and border control to block any attempt by lawbreakers to commit cross-border crimes. Third, strengthen capacity building and judicial coordination, and enhance publicity, education, and law enforcement training. Fourth, strengthen transformation development and social governance, coordinate security and development, continuously improve local socioeconomic conditions, and eradicate the breeding ground for illicit and gray industries.

The four parties agreed to continue to strengthen law enforcement and security cooperation, step up efforts to combat cross-border crimes, including online gambling, telecom fraud, drug and weapon trafficking, and human trafficking, and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability.

Mekong Foreign Ministers meet in China’s city of peace and harmony

On August 15, 2025, the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting was held in Anning, in China’s southwestern Yunnan province.

The LMC is a cooperation mechanism, founded a decade ago, that groups China with five of its close southeast Asian neighbours who all share the Mekong River.

Following the meeting, Chinese Foreign Wang Yi and his Thai counterpart, Maris Sangiampongsa, as co-chairs of the gathering, jointly met the press to brief on its outcome.

Wang Yi said that over the past decade, the building of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Economic Development Belt has made a smooth start. Trade between China and the five Mekong countries has reached 437 billion US dollars, an increase of 125 percent. Both hard and soft connectivity of regional infrastructure have been strengthened, industrial and supply chain cooperation has deepened, and the Innovation Corridor has become a new highlight of development.

He added that the six Lancang-Mekong countries, as a natural community with a shared future, have gained invaluable experience from a decade of cooperation. In the face of multiple international and regional challenges, the key to the robust growth of the LMC lies in adherence to four principles: first, uphold good-neighbourliness, friendship and a shared future; second, focus on development and pragmatic cooperation; third, ensure benefits for the people and remain open and inclusive; fourth, pursue innovation as the driving force and implement pilot projects.

As the day also marked the 80th anniversary of Japan’s unconditional surrender in World War Two, Wang Yi further said that he would like to state clearly China’s position on this very day. Eighty years ago today, Japan was defeated, accepted the Potsdam Proclamation and announced its unconditional surrender. The war of aggression waged by Japanese militarists at that time inflicted catastrophes not only on the people of China and other Asian countries, but also on the people of Japan. A series of international documents, including the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, clearly defined Japan’s responsibility for the war and required that Japan return all the territories it had stolen from China, including Taiwan. This is an indisputable outcome of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and constitutes an important part of the post-war international order. Yet to this day, certain forces in Japan are still trying to whitewash or deny the aggression, distort or falsify history, and even honour the war criminals and justify their crimes. Such despicable and disgraceful actions bring shame upon themselves, and challenge the United Nations Charter, the post-war international order, human conscience, and all the people of the victorious countries. Only by facing up to history can respect be earned; only by drawing lessons from history can a future be forged; only by remembering the past can straying onto the wrong path again be avoided.

The previous day, Wang Yi had held a trilateral gathering as well as bilateral exchanges with all five of his counterparts.

He held a ‘tea chat’ with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Prak Sokhonn and Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, providing an opportunity to discuss the current Thai-Cambodian border dispute in a friendly and candid way.

‘Tea chats’ are playing an increasing role as an arm of Chinese diplomacy as ‘tea culture’ is deeply embedded not only in Chinese society but also in many other countries in east and southeast Asia.

Wang Yi stated that neither Cambodia nor Thailand wants the border conflict to continue, and both are willing to resume dialogue and improve relations. The Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Anning has provided an opportunity for this. The name “Anning” signifies peace, harmony, and amity, which is also the way neighbours should get along.

The Chinese side is ready, in line with the wishes of Cambodia and Thailand, to provide support and assistance for the clearing of mines and other activities in the border areas of the two countries. As an old Chinese saying goes, “Brothers may quarrel within the family, but they stand together against outside threats.”

The Chinese Foreign Ministry reported five outcomes from the chat, including that:

  • Cambodia and Thailand have expressed their commitment to strengthening engagement and communication, resuming normal exchanges at the earliest time, and rebuilding and enhancing mutual trust. 
  • Cambodia and Thailand are encouraged to build up conditions for returning to normality in the border areas, so as to live up to the expectations of the people living there.
  • Based on the wishes of Cambodia and Thailand, China stands ready to continue its constructive role, including providing support and assistance for de-mining in the border areas agreed by both Cambodia and Thailand.

Meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Vietnam Bui Thanh Son, Wang Yi stated that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the founding of the United Nations, as well as the 80th anniversary of the founding of Vietnam and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South. During the years of pursuing national independence and liberation, China and Vietnam treated each other with sincerity and stood together to provide mutual assistance, forging a deep friendship featuring the spirit of being both “comrades and brothers”. In the course of China’s reform and opening up, as well as Viet Nam’s Doi Moi reforms, the two countries have supported each other and moved forward hand in hand, blazing socialist paths towards modernisation suited to their respective national conditions. Facing profound changes unseen in a century, China is ready to work with Vietnam to carry forward traditional friendship, strengthen strategic mutual trust, implement the outcomes of General Secretary and President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Vietnam, jointly build a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, ensure that China-Vietnam mutually beneficial cooperation brings greater benefits to the peoples of both countries, and make due contributions to regional peace and stability.

Continue reading Mekong Foreign Ministers meet in China’s city of peace and harmony

FBI upgrade enmeshes New Zealand in anti-China war plans

In the following article, which was originally published on Consortium News, Mick Hall analyses how the recent visit to New Zealand by Kash Patel, Donald Trump’s far-right Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), where he announced a significant upgrade in the bureau’s local presence, will further enmesh the twin island South Pacific nation in the anti-China machinations of the Anglo-Saxon ‘Five Eyes’ espionage cabal.

Speaking in the capital Wellington on July 31, Patel was clear as to the main purpose of his visit: “Some of the most important global issues of our times are the ones that New Zealand and America work on together – countering the CCP [Chinese Communist Party].”

The upgraded presence will also oversee FBI activities in Antarctica, Samoa, Niue, the Cook Islands and Tonga, as well as in New Zealand itself.

The day after Patel’s comments, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun warned that “cooperation between countries should not target any third party.”

He added: “Seeking so-called absolute security through forming small groupings under the banner of countering China does not help keep the Asia-Pacific and the world at large peaceful and stable.”

New Zealand’s main opposition Labour Party questioned why the office was needed and said more information would be sought before commenting further.

Other opposition parties were more outspoken. Addressing demonstrators outside the US Consulate in Auckland on August 2, representatives of the Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand and Te Pati Maori (representing the country’s indigenous people), drew cheers after vowing to have the office shut down.

Green Party co-leader Chloe Swarbrick had posted on social media that the opening of the office signalled New Zealand was “tying itself to an increasingly unstable Trump administration.”

“We are not, nor should we allow ourselves to be, pawns in a power struggle between the US and China.”

Hall observes that: “The Wellington upgrade is a sign of increasing Western focus on the Asia-Pacific region. The US and Five Eyes intelligence-sharing partners Australia and New Zealand have been preparing for war with China… [but] as many analysts observe, the real threat is the rise of multipolarity, as Western neocolonial hegemony is challenged by the expanding BRICS trading group, led by China, Russia and emerging nations in the Global South. The Asia-Pacific region is relatively peaceful, with an increasing BRICS presence dovetailing with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), an organisation of 10 countries in Southeast Asia, promoting economic, political, and security cooperation.”

The opening of a Federal Bureau of Investigations standalone office in New Zealand has caused widespread opposition, sparking a protest outside a U.S. consulate and vows by opposition parties to have it closed.

F.B.I. Director Kash Patel announced his organisation’s upgraded presence in the South Pacific nation on July 31, during a visit to Wellington, standing alongside senior government officials in its parliamentary building, The Beehive.

He told media:

“Some of the most important global issues of our times are the ones that New Zealand and America work on together — countering the CCP [Chinese Communist Party] in the Indo PACOM theatre, countering the narcotics trade, working together against cyber-intrusions and ransomware operations and, most importantly, protecting our respective citizenry.”

The F.B.I. operates legats, or legal attaches, across the world, allowing the organisation to coordinate with domestic law enforcement agencies, government officials and intelligence partners. The bureau has maintained a presence in Wellington since 2017, with its main regional office based in Australia’s capital, Canberra, since 1999.

Continue reading FBI upgrade enmeshes New Zealand in anti-China war plans

Beyond victory: Rethinking WWII’s legacy in a fractured world

We are pleased to publish below an original article by Wu Yanni, a Beijing-based political commentator and contributor to Chinese and international media, arguing that the lessons of World War II remain relevant – and indeed urgent – in today’s geopolitical context.

Marking the 80th anniversary of the victory over fascism and the founding of the United Nations, Wu stresses that the war’s devastation—100 million casualties worldwide, including 35 million Chinese lives—is a sobering reminder that militarism “leads not to greatness, but to ruin.” For China, the 14-year resistance against Japan became both a struggle for survival and part of the foundation of its modern nationhood.

A central theme is the danger of selective memory. Wu critiques attempts in Japan to downplay atrocities such as the Nanjing Massacre or Unit 731, a secret research facility in Heilongjiang, northeast China, where criminal and inhumane experiments were carried out on Chinese, Russian, Korean and other prisoners. Globally, she warns, invoking distorted history to justify present-day militarism and aggression undermines the spirit of the UN Charter and runs counter to the multipolar trend.

The article highlights the overlooked role of the Global South in the war: India’s 2.5 million volunteer soldiers, African and Latin American contributions, and Brazil’s combat role. These experiences have been marginalised and largely ignored in Western historical accounts. Wu writes:

As soldiers returned home, many questioned why they had fought for freedom abroad while being denied basic rights at home. From Vietnam to Ghana to Indonesia, national liberation movements accelerated. The 1955 Bandung Conference, where newly independent nations charted a path toward nonalignment and sovereignty, marked a turning point.

Today, however, “the Global South is no longer a silent object of history. From BRICS cooperation to African-led development frameworks and Latin American regionalism, formerly marginalised voices are demanding a say in shaping global rules.”

Wu Yanni concludes by recounting China’s peaceful rise and its consistent orientation towards inclusive development and multilateral cooperation. As such, China is helping to truly apply the lessons of WWII, “building a future where peace is sustained not by dominance but by cooperation, equity, and respect”.

War and peace have always shaped the trajectory of human civilization. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the broader World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the founding of the United Nations.

Eighty years ago, nations came together in the wake of unprecedented devastation to chart a new path for global peace. China, along with the Soviet Union, was among the first to sign the UN Charter, an act symbolizing a shared hope that the horrors of fascism would never be repeated.

The price of that hope was staggering: over 100 million casualties, with half of humanity drawn into the conflict. For China, the war was not just a battleground against foreign invasion; it was a pivotal moment in its modern nationhood. The 14-year resistance against Japanese aggression, which cost 35 million Chinese military and civilian lives, held the Eastern Front and helped shape the moral foundation of the postwar international order.

Looking back from today’s fractured and uncertain world, the lessons of that war remain painfully relevant. Militarism, no matter how technologically advanced or ideologically justified, inevitably breeds destruction. Dominant narratives that claim moral superiority cannot contain the rising currents of multipolarity. Real peace cannot be achieved through alliances defined by exclusion. It requires a shared commitment to inclusion, fairness, and mutual respect.

Continue reading Beyond victory: Rethinking WWII’s legacy in a fractured world

Chinese Ambassador recalls wartime solidarity between Chinese and British people

On August 15, which marked the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in the Second World War, Chinese Ambassador to Britain Zheng Zeguang published an article in the Guardian newspaper entitled, ‘China and Britain shared a mission to fight aggression and fascism. And we can work together today’.

Ambassador Zheng wrote: “At the darkest hour of the Second World War, China and the UK fought on different fronts but shared a common mission: to defend humanity against fascism and aggression. Millions of lives were lost, cities razed, and families torn apart. Yet in that darkness, courage and solidarity illuminated the way forward. The Chinese and British peoples stood shoulder to shoulder, united by sacrifice and a shared belief in freedom and justice.”

Among the examples he cites:

  • In Asia, Chinese forces made immense sacrifices to support Allied efforts. In 1942, the Chinese Expeditionary Force marched over 1,500 gruelling kilometers through the jungles of Myanmar to rescue British forces trapped by Japanese troops.
  • In Britain, thousands of Chinese seamen served with quiet courage in perilous convoys. They braved the freezing Atlantic to deliver fuel and supplies to British forces on the front lines – often with little recognition and no promise of return. [In fact, thousands of them were shamefully deported after the war in an act of egregious racism by the Labour government that tore families apart forever.]
  • In October 1942, when the Lisbon Maru, a Japanese transport vessel carrying over 1,800 British prisoners of war, was mistakenly torpedoed by a US submarine… local fishermen risked their lives, dodging volleys of Japanese gunfire, to rescue 384 survivors from the sea.
  • Across the UK, ordinary citizens formed aid organisations, held fundraisers, and sent donations to support the Chinese people.
  • George Hogg, a young man from Harpenden (a one-time reporter for the Manchester Guardian) [the precursor of today’s Guardian]… journeyed to China to provide schooling and shelter for displaced children, dedicating his youth, passion and ultimately his life to a just cause. His internationalist spirit remains deeply cherished by the Chinese people. 

“History has shown,” Zheng Zeguang writes, “what China and the UK can achieve when we stand together. As we commemorate this historic anniversary, China stands ready to work with the UK to carry forward the legacy of those who came before us.”

The following is the full text of the Ambassador’s article as reproduced on the website of the Chinese Embassy in London.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese people’s war of resistance against Japanese aggression and the world anti-fascist war. There will be a two-minute silence at 12 noon in the UK to honour the 80th anniversary of VJ Day. This is a moment not only for solemn remembrance, but also for reflection on the enduring bonds forged in the crucible of history—bonds that continue to resonate in our world today.

At the darkest hour of the second world war, China and the UK fought on different fronts but shared a common mission: to defend humanity against fascism and aggression. Millions of lives were lost, cities razed, and families torn apart. Yet in that darkness, courage and solidarity illuminated the way forward. The Chinese and British peoples stood shoulder to shoulder, united by sacrifice and a shared belief in freedom and justice.

Continue reading Chinese Ambassador recalls wartime solidarity between Chinese and British people

Trump makes BRICS great again

As Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump prepare to meet in the current US state and former Russian territory of Alaska on August 15 for talks centred on the conflict in Ukraine, they do so against a wider diplomatic background of engagements among the Global South, with BRICS+ in the lead, and triggered not least by the indiscriminate bullying tactics on the part of Trump.

Faced with the shameless bullying and arbitrary economic punishment beating on the part of the United States, not least in support of Trump’s fascist friend, former President Jair Bolsonaro, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has conducted telephone diplomacy to coordinate positions with his Chinese, Russian and Indian counterparts.

On August 12, President Xi Jinping spoke with President Lula for one hour, at the latter’s request.

Xi Jinping pointed out that China-Brazil relations are at their best in history, with a good start and strong momentum in building the China-Brazil community with a shared future and aligning development strategies. China is ready to work with Brazil to seize opportunities, strengthen coordination, deliver more mutually beneficial cooperation outcomes, set an example of uniting for strength among major Global South countries, and build a more just world and sustainable planet.

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva briefed on Brazil’s current relationship with the United States and Brazil’s principled stance on firmly safeguarding its sovereignty. He appreciated China’s efforts to uphold multilateralism and free trade rules, and its responsible role in international affairs. Brazil is ready to enhance communication and coordination with China within BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms, oppose unilateralism and bullying acts, and safeguard the common interests of all countries.

Xi Jinping said that China supports the Brazilian people in defending national sovereignty and supports Brazil in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests. Countries should unite in unequivocally opposing unilateralism and protectionism. The BRICS mechanism is an important platform for building consensus in the Global South. He congratulated Brazil on successfully hosting the BRICS Summit. Global South countries should join hands to uphold international fairness and justice, safeguard the basic norms governing international relations, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries.

Their conversation was preceded by an August 6 call between Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Brazilian Chief Advisor to the Presidency Celso Luiz Nunes Amorim, again at the latter’s request.

Wang Yi said that China resolutely supports Brazil in defending its state sovereignty and national dignity and opposes groundless interference in Brazil’s internal affairs by external forces. China firmly supports Brazil in protecting its development rights and interests and resisting the bullying practices of arbitrary tariffs. China firmly supports Brazil in strengthening solidarity and cooperation among the Global South through the BRICS mechanism and promoting strength through unity among developing countries. Using tariffs as a weapon to suppress other countries runs counter to the purposes of the United Nations Charter and undermines WTO rules. Such practices will win no support and cannot be sustained. China is ready to work with Brazil to fully implement the important common understandings reached by the two heads of state, deepen bilateral cooperation, enrich the strategic dimension of the China-Brazil community with a shared future, and effectively offset external uncertainties through the stability and complementarity of bilateral cooperation.

Celso Amorim noted that the profound friendship, strong mutual trust, and fruitful pragmatic cooperation between the two countries are truly commendable. Brazil is willing to work with China to fully implement the common understandings reached between the two heads of state and deepen cooperation in various fields such as trade and finance. The United States’ imposition of high tariffs on Brazil has disrupted normal economic and trade relations and interfered in Brazil’s internal affairs, which Brazil firmly opposes. Brazil thanks China for its steadfast support and is willing to work with China to promote the improvement and development of the BRICS mechanism, enhance solidarity and self-strength among the Global South, and uphold international fairness and justice.

What is also noteworthy is that relations between China and India are significantly improving.

On August 13, the financial news service Bloomberg reported that, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is drawing closer to the BRICS countries after US President Donald Trump hit the South Asian nation with a 50% tariff.

“Modi’s latest move is to resume direct flights with China as soon as next month, said people familiar with the negotiations who asked for anonymity to discuss private matters. The deal could be formally announced when Modi is expected to head to China for the first time in seven years and meet leader Xi Jinping at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation held in Tianjin from Aug. 31…

“Modi’s economic calculus was fundamentally altered this month when Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50% as a penalty for its purchases of Russian oil. The US president’s remarks that India’s economy was ‘dead’ and its tariff barriers ‘obnoxious’ further strained relations.”

The report added: “The Adani Group [of billionaire Gautam Adani, currently facing a US court indictment] is exploring a tieup with Chinese EV giant BYD Co. that would allow… Adani’s conglomerate to manufacture batteries in India and extend its push into clean energy, according to people familiar with the matter.”

Moreover, prior to his Alaska visit, Vladimir Putin also had a telephone conversation with Xi Jinping on August 8, at the request of the Russian President.

President Putin briefed Xi Jinping on Russia’s views on the current situation of the Ukraine crisis and the recent contact and communication between Russia and the United States, adding that Russia highly appreciates the constructive role China has been playing in the political settlement of the crisis. He stated that the comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination between Russia and China will not change under any circumstances.

Xi Jinping said that no matter how the situation evolves, China will maintain its consistent position and continue promoting talks for peace. China welcomes contacts between Russia and the US to improve bilateral ties and advance the process of realising a political settlement of the crisis.

Both sides said they will make concerted efforts in preparation for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Tianjin Summit to ensure a successful gathering of friendship, solidarity and fruitful results.

This call was one of a number made by the Russian President to brief and discuss with friendly leaders in the Global South ahead of his meeting with Trump. They include – in the order reported by the Russian President’s website – the leaders of South Africa, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Belarus, India, Brazil, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).

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Chinese and Russian diplomats celebrate anti-fascist victory in DPRK

Chinese and Russian diplomats in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) jointly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War on July 31.

Chinese Ambassador Wang Yajun said that 80 years ago, China and the Soviet Union fought side by side and supported each other, won the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Great Patriotic War on their respective battlefields, and made significant historical contributions to the victory of the world anti-fascist war. In May this year, President Xi Jinping attended a celebration commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union in the Great Patriotic War. In September, President Putin will also attend the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

Russian Ambassador Alexander Matsegora congratulated the Chinese people on the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, saying that the Russian and Chinese peoples made the greatest sacrifices in the European and Pacific theatres respectively and played a decisive role in the struggle to defeat German Nazism and Japanese militarism.

The following article was originally published in Chinese on the website of the Chinese Embassy in the DPRK and has been machine translated.

On July 31, 2025, Ambassador Wang Yajun and Russian Ambassador to the DPRK Matsegora led diplomats from the Chinese and Russian embassies in the DPRK in a friendly exchange event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The event was attended by Minister Feng Chuntai of the Chinese Embassy in the DPRK, Defense Attaché Major General Wang Yisheng, Counsellor Gao Wu, and Counsellor Xu Feng, as well as Minister Counsellor Topeha, Defense Attaché Major General Batusov, and Political Counselor Shutov of the Russian Embassy in the DPRK.

Ambassador Wang stated that 80 years ago, China and the Soviet Union fought side by side and supported each other, achieving victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Great Patriotic War on their respective fronts, making significant historical contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. In May of this year, President Xi Jinping attended the celebrations commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War. In September, President Putin will also attend the commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. China is willing to work with Russia, guided by the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, to remember history, cherish the memory of the martyrs, promote a correct view of World War II history, safeguard the achievements of World War II and the post-war international order, and uphold international fairness and justice and regional peace and stability.

Ambassador Matsegora congratulated the Chinese people on the 80th anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. He stated that the Russian and Chinese peoples made the greatest sacrifices in the European and Pacific theaters, respectively, and played a decisive role in defeating German Nazism and Japanese militarism. Russia has always advocated peace and hopes to create a peaceful and stable environment for economic development and improving people’s livelihoods. The international community should work together to build a just and peaceful international order and ensure equal rights for all nations and peoples.

The two sides jointly watched a video commemorating the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the victory of Russia’s Great Patriotic War. Chinese and Russian diplomats respectively recited the poem “The Eternal Torch” and sang the song “Blood Type” to express their remembrance of history and their cherishment of peace.

Chinese Consulate marks a decade of building friendship with Northern Ireland

On July 21, China’s Consul General in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Li Nan published a signed article entitled ‘A Fruitful Decade Marks a New Phase of China-NI Relationship’ in the Irish News newspaper, celebrating the consulate’s 10th anniversary.

Li Nan acknowledges the important role played by the late senior Sinn Féin leader Martin McGuinness in the establishment of the consulate:

“Ten years ago, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Northern Ireland and together with then Deputy Minister Martin McGuinness and Finance Minister Arlene Foster, witnessed the inauguration of the Chinese Consulate General in Belfast… Since then, the relationship between China and Northern Ireland has entered a new chapter.

“Over the past decade, from sincere mutual trust and pragmatic cooperation to strong people-to-people exchanges, the Consulate General has worked hand in hand with all sectors of NI society to continuously elevate local exchanges and cooperation.”

Updating the story, Li Nan writes: “In recent years, H.E. Zheng Zeguang, the Chinese Ambassador to the UK, has visited Northern Ireland twice, meeting with the First Minister, the Deputy First Minister, the Speaker of the Assembly, and representatives from various sectors. He also attended China–UK/NI forums on new energy and education in 2023 and 2024 respectively, promoting the deepening of practical bilateral cooperation. In 2024, H.E. Qibatu, Vice Chairman of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, visited Northern Ireland to explore opportunities for expanding agricultural cooperation. In 2025, H.E. Wu Yan, Vice Minister of Education of China, led a delegation to Northern Ireland and held in-depth discussions on enhancing high-level educational cooperation.”

Northern Ireland has established sister-province relations with Hubei and Liaoning, along with seven sister-city relations, including those between Belfast and Shenyang, Derry/Londonderry and Dalian, and Fermanagh and Huangshi.

On the economic front, China is Northern Ireland’s second-largest import market and its 12th-largest export market. Bilateral trade has reached and stabilised at around £1 billion for several consecutive years, demonstrating strong resilience and vitality.

“Well-known companies, including Lakeland Dairies, Cranswick Country Foods Ballymena, Old Bushmills Distillery, and Mallaghan Engineering Ltd, have maintained close ties with the Chinese market, with their exports continuing to grow steadily. Chinese brand BYD’s electric vehicles can now be seen on the streets of Northern Ireland, while specialty products from Northern Ireland, like whiskey, pork, and dairy products are making their way onto Chinese dining tables.”

Continue reading Chinese Consulate marks a decade of building friendship with Northern Ireland

Chinese Ambassador reaffirms special relationship with Tanzania

Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian has strongly reaffirmed the historic friendship between the two countries.

Addressing a late July reception celebrating the 98th anniversary of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) she stated:

“I would like to avail this opportunity to honour the deep, broad and robust relations between China and Tanzania. China has always regarded Tanzania as our best friend and placed the development of friendly relations with Tanzania in an important position in our foreign relations. China-Tanzania traditional friendship is forged by our older generation of leaders of the two countries, including Chairman Mao Zedong and President Julius Nyerere. From the struggles for national liberation, to the pursuit of national rejuvenation, and to the march towards modernisation, we have always stood together through thick and thin, and supported each other, thus tightening our bilateral bond stronger and stronger and pushing our bilateral relations higher and higher.”

She also said: “This celebration is a venue to review the history of the Chinese PLA, which was created by the Communist Party of China on 1st August 1927. During the past 98 years, the Chinese PLA has made indelible achievements in realising national independence, liberating the Chinese people, and making China prosperous and strong. In recent years, China’s PLA has been steadfast on the way to realise the centenary goal in 2027. It has intensified troop training and enhanced combat preparedness across the board, accelerated the transformation and upgrading of military training, strengthened new-domain forces with new combat capabilities, and enhanced the ability to win informatised and intelligent warfare.”

The previous week, in an interview with Tanzania’s Guardian newspaper, Ambassador Chen said: “The recent development of China-Tanzania relations comes from our common past. The special relationship can date back to the leadership of the founding fathers of our two nations. We will never forget how Chairman Mao Zedong, Premier Zhou Enlai and Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere, and Vice President Abeid Karume nurtured our unbreakable traditional friendship with sincerity and good faith in the old days. From then on, China and Tanzania share a long-standing strong relationship built on mutual respect and mutual trust. No matter how the international situation changes, no matter what challenges we face, and no matter what kind of disturbance and disruption we encounter, the traditional friendship between China and Tanzania has withstood the test of time and is getting stronger with time.”

She also recalled that President Xi Jinping visited Tanzania right after assuming office (along with Russia, the Republic of Congo and South Africa).

The Guardian also posted the video of the interview and reported the reception for the PLA anniversary.

The following articles were originally published on the website of the Chinese Embassy in Tanzania and are reprinted here from that of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Speech of Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian at the Reception in Celebration of the 98th Anniversary of Chinese PLA

July 25 (MFA) – Honorable Lieutenant General Salum Haji Othman, Chief of Staff, Tanzania Peoples’ Defence Forces,
Honorable Rear Admiral Hassan, Tanzania Navy Commander,
Honorable Major General Kodi, Chief of Logistics and Engineering, TPDF,
Honorable Major General Ibuge, Commandant of Tanzania National Defence College,
Excellencies,
My Fellow Chinese Nationals,
Dear Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good evening! Habari za jioni!

Continue reading Chinese Ambassador reaffirms special relationship with Tanzania

China and Iran consolidate ties in face of US-Israeli aggression

A Chinese international relations scholar has outlined the broad prospects for further consolidation and development of bilateral friendly relations with Iran.

Writing in the Tehran Times on August 4, Dr. Jin Liangxiang, Senior Fellow at the Shanghai Institute for International Studies (SIIS), noted that China-Iran mutual political trust has reached a new and higher level since last October’s meeting between the two heads of state on the sideline of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia.

When Iran faced outright aggression from Israel and the United States in June, China promptly expressed its solidarity, with President Xi Jinping putting forward a four-point peace proposal, Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaking with his Iranian counterpart twice within 12 days, and introducing a resolution for an immediate ceasefire in the United Nations Security Council, together with Russia and Pakistan.

Dr. Jin further notes that China and Iran, as two great nations with ancient civilisations, have long histories of resilience in the face of adversity and crisis. This shared legacy has fostered a deep-rooted aspiration for independence within their national identities – an outlook that leaves little room for illusions about Western hegemonic power.

However: “There used to be illusions for so-called Western liberal democracy in the two countries, which took it for granted that human rights would be protected. Some even had illusions that non-Western countries like China and Iran could be treated fairly, their legitimate rights could be regarded and national dignity could be respected.”

But US support for and European countries’ silence in regard to Israel’s genocide in Palestine, among other issues, had manifested fully the hypocritical nature of the policies of the West. “The illusions of the two [countries], though never mainstream, for the West had been shattered.”

As a result, as more people return to a realistic understanding of global dynamics, both nations are becoming increasingly resolute in advancing their relationship.

The relationship has been further institutionalised through the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS. “Iran’s membership in the two institutions had greatly enhanced the legitimacy of the two institutions.”

Jin also points out that: “China has grown much more mature and confident in resisting America’s political and economic pressures. China and the US had conducted three rounds of negotiations on tariff issue respectively in Geneva, London and Stockholm from May to July 2025. No evidence suggested that China will make concessions facing US bluffing. China’s confidence in its face-off with the US will certainly be good news for China-Iran trade relations in short and long terms.”

Meanwhile, on July 30, Tehran Times reported Brigadier-General Mohammad Ahadi, Chief of Defence Diplomacy and International Relations of the Iranian Armed Forces, as stating: “I consider it necessary to acknowledge the fair positions of the Chinese government and other governments that, without fear of the hegemonic power of the West, took the lead in condemning the acts of aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

He made the remarks at the Chinese Embassy in Tehran during a reception the previous day marking the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

Continue reading China and Iran consolidate ties in face of US-Israeli aggression

Liu Jianchao visits Algeria

Following his recent visit to South Africa, where he attended the Liberation Movements Summit, Liu Jianchao, Minister of the Communist Party of China’s International Department (IDCPC), paid a visit to Algeria.

On July 28, he met with Abdelkrim Benmebarek, Secretary-General of the National Liberation Front (FLN) of Algeria.

Liu said, for a long time, China and Algeria have always stood firmly together in their respective struggles for national liberation and development. Seventy years ago, China and Algeria jointly promoted the formation of the Bandung spirit of solidarity, friendship and cooperation. The current global governance system is characterised by imbalance and disorder, with rising isolationism and neocolonialism, posing severe challenges to the development of the Global South countries. China is willing to work with Algeria to inherit and carry forward the Bandung spirit, enhance communication and coordination on international and regional issues, promote solidarity and cooperation among the Global South countries, and jointly address global challenges.

He added that the CPC and the FLN share similar ideas and have similar experiences in the struggle. Under the new circumstances, the CPC is willing to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state through inter-party channels, further enhance the level of cooperation between the two parties, increase political mutual trust and mutual understanding, and be fellow companions sharing the same ideals; strengthen political dialogue, deepen cooperation in areas such as party building and cadre training, and serve the cause of the two parties; promote exchanges and practical cooperation in various fields such as social organisations, media, think tanks and localities through the “political party +” platform, and promote greater development of China-Algeria relations.

Benmebarek said, the friendship between Algeria and China is close and solid and has been tested over time. The FLN and the CPC share similar views on many issues and have a common vision for maintaining international fairness and justice, which stems from our joint struggle for national liberation. The FLN values the brotherly friendship with the CPC and hopes to work with the CPC to keep pace with the times, comprehensively plan cooperation, and enhance personnel exchanges and ideological exchanges.

The next day, Liu met with Mustapha Haidaoui, President of the Supreme Youth Council and Minister of Youth of Algeria.

He said that the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century. The successful practice of Chinese modernisation demonstrates that modernisation is not the same as Westernisation, and that there are diverse paths to modernisation. China is willing to work with Algeria to uphold independence and self-reliance, pursue development paths that suit respective national conditions, and advance progress in modernisation progress. China, Algeria, and other developing countries should strengthen solidarity and cooperation to safeguard the common interests of the Global South countries and promote a more just and equitable international order.

Liu noted that young people are the future and the hope of the country. The CPC has always attached great importance to youth work. General Secretary Xi Jinping has repeatedly encouraged young Chinese people to carry forward the spirit of struggle and contribute their strength to Chinese modernisation in the new era. The CPC is willing to work with the Supreme Youth Council of Algeria to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state on the China-Algeria comprehensive strategic partnership, intensify exchanges and cooperation between young politicians, scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs, strengthen mutual learning of experience in state governance and administration, and strengthen strategic coordination in politics, economy, science and technology, so that the younger generations of the two countries can take up the baton of the traditional China-Algeria friendship.

Haidaoui stated that the friendship between Algeria and China is unbreakable, and China is a strategic partner of Algeria. The aim of establishing the Supreme Youth Council is to empower young people, expand their participation in the country’s political, economic, cultural, and social life, carry forward the revolutionary legacy, and contribute to national development. The Supreme Youth Council has benefited greatly from the exchanges with the CPC and looks forward to strengthening exchanges and cooperation in politics, economy, and the international field, carrying forward the revolutionary friendship between Algeria and China, creating more positive conditions for all-round cooperation between the two countries, and helping build a better multipolar world.

On July 29, Liu visited the Tipaza Provincial Party headquarters of the FLN He said, the CPC is ready to carry forward the revolutionary friendship with the National Liberation Front, deepen exchanges of experience in grassroots party building, and empower both parties to lead their respective countries towards better development.

That day, he also met with two other Algerian political parties.

Continue reading Liu Jianchao visits Algeria

China strengthens party ties with Honduras

The Communist Party of China (CPC) has strengthened its friendly ties with the ruling Liberty and Refoundation (LIBRE) Party of Honduras.

On July 27, Ma Hui, Vice-Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met in Beijing with a LIBRE delegation led by Gerardo Torres, Secretary of International Liaison for the party and Vice Foreign Minister of Honduras.

Ma positively evaluated the benefits brought to the people of both countries by the development of bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Honduras. He said, the CPC and LIBRE had friendly exchanges before the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This visit is the first visit to China by a LIBRE delegation after the establishment of diplomatic relations, opening a new chapter in the relations between the two parties.

China and Honduras established diplomatic relations on March 26, 2023. President Iris Xiomara Castro Sarmiento paid a state visit to China from June 9-14, 2023.

The next day, Ma Hui met with a delegation from the Autonomous Community of Catalonia of Spain, led by Salvador Illa, Secretary of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) of the Autonomous Community of Catalonia and President of the Government of Catalonia.

Ma said that the CPC is willing to work with the PSOE to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, enhance exchanges between the two parties, give full play to the role of the “political party +” platform, and support the practical cooperation between the Autonomous Community of Catalonia and China, so as to contribute to the healthy and stable development of China-Spain and China-European Union relations.

Illa said that the Autonomous Community of Catalonia will adhere to the friendly policy towards China of the Spanish central government and promote mutually beneficial cooperation with China in various fields, so as to achieve common development.

This was the second reported contact between the CPC and political forces in Catalonia in recent months. Our previous report may be read here.

And on July 29, Ma Hui met with a delegation of Chilean parliamentarians led by Gastón Saavedra from the Socialist Party (PS), and who is head of the labour and social security committee of the Chilean Senate, who were visiting China at the invitation of the National People’s Congress (NPC).

Ma positively evaluated the friendly relations between China and Chile, stating that exchanges between political parties are an important part of bilateral relations. The CPC has maintained close ties with Chilean political parties from both the ruling and opposition sides for a long time, enhancing mutual understanding and friendship.

After the meeting, Ma Hui joined the Chilean delegation in participating in an exchange activity with teachers and students from Dingri in Xigaze City, Xizang (Tibet) Autonomous Region, who were in Beijing for a program on the introductory journey into diplomacy of young people from Xizang.

We previously reported on Ma Hui’s visit to Nicaragua to participate in the anniversary celebrations of the July 19 Sandinista popular revolution. Following this, and prior to returning to Beijing, he led a CPC delegation to visit El Salvador, July 21-22, and Costa Rica, July 23-24.

The following articles were originally published on the IDCPC website.

Ma Hui Meets with a Delegation of the LIBRE Party of Honduras

Beijing, July 27th (IDCPC) —Ma Hui, Vice-minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met here today with a delegation of the Liberty and Refoundation (LIBRE) Party led by Gerardo Torres, Secretary of International Liaison for the Liberty and Refoundation (LIBRE) Party and Vice Foreign Minister of Honduras.

Ma positively evaluated the benefits brought to the people of both countries by the development of bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Honduras. He said, the CPC and the LIBRE had friendly exchanges before the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This visit is the first visit to China by a LIBRE delegation after the establishment of diplomatic relations, opening a new chapter in the relations between the two Parties. China is willing to deepen exchanges of experience in state governance and administration with the LIBRE, enhance the breadth and depth of inter-party cooperation, and promote the steady and long-term development of China-Honduras relations.

Torres reaffirmed Honduras’ firm commitment to the one-China principle, and said that the LIBRE hopes to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning of experience in party building and state governance with the CPC, promote the development of bilateral relations, and better benefit the people of both countries.

Continue reading China strengthens party ties with Honduras

Europe at the crossroads

The following article by Carlos Martinez in Beijing Review explores the 50-year evolution of China–EU relations, highlighting both their historic cooperation and current tensions amid US pressure.

The establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the European Economic Community in 1975 marked a strategic shift for both parties. China viewed Europe as a crucial partner in accessing capital and technology to fuel its Four Modernisations, while Europe gained access to a vast and growing market. Carlos notes that, over the last 50 years, “trade between China and the EU has increased by a factor of 300,” now approaching $800 billion annually. This relationship has extended beyond economics into joint efforts on global issues like climate change.

Geopolitically, China sought ties with Europe as part of Mao Zedong’s strategy of engaging the “intermediate zone”—countries that, like China, sought independence from US hegemony. Mao warned in 1954 that the US aimed “to occupy the countries in this vast intermediate zone, bully them, control their economies.”

However, in recent years, the US-led New Cold War has created pressure on Europe to distance itself from China. The EU has labeled China a “systemic rival” and imposed sanctions over alleged human rights concerns. Under US influence, the EU has delayed ratifying the China–EU Comprehensive Agreement on Investment, excluded Huawei from network infrastructure, and imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.

Carlos argues that this hostility harms European interests. He cites The Economist to suggest that Chinese green subsidies are in fact a boon: “If China wants to spend taxpayers’ money subsidising global consumers and speeding up the energy transition, the best response is to welcome it.”

A more autonomous European strategy, grounded in cooperation, would better serve its people. Carlos concludes that China remains a force for “peace, progress, stability and sustainability”—a partner Europe should engage with as an equal, rather than as a pawn in US strategic games.

The establishment of bilateral ties between China and the European Economic Community, the precursor of the European Union (EU), on May 6, 1975, was a pivotal moment in modern history. Since that time, the China-Europe relationship has been among the most important in global politics.

From the start, both sides had a huge amount to gain from the relationship. For China, Europe promised to be a valuable partner in facilitating access to Western technology and capital, thereby supporting China’s Four Modernizations (in agriculture, industry, defense and science and technology). As China became increasingly integrated into the global economy, Europe provided much-needed investment as well as being a major export market for Chinese manufactured goods.

Geopolitically, China was keen to diversify its international relationships, and particularly to build strong ties with countries in what Mao Zedong theorized as the “intermediate zone,” recognizing that both the Global South and the advanced countries of Europe had cause to assert their sovereignty and reject domination.

Indeed, Mao’s comments from August 1954, in discussion with a delegation from Britain’s Labour Party, are resonant today: “The objective of the U.S. is to occupy the countries in this vast intermediate zone, bully them, control their economies, establish military bases on their territory, and see to it that they are increasingly weakened.”

Continue reading Europe at the crossroads

Communist Party of China joins Liberation Movements Summit in South Africa

The Communist Party of China (CPC) joined the Liberation Movements Summit that was hosted by the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa in Johannesburg, between July 25-28, under the theme, ‘Defending the Liberation Gains, Advancing Integrated Socio-Economic Development, Strengthening Solidarity for a Better Africa.’

Besides the ANC, the core participants were the five other main liberation movements in the region – the Popular Liberation Movement of Angola (MPLA), the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) of Namibia, the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO), the Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) and the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (Revolutionary Party of Tanzania – CCM).

In a statement, the ANC said: “This critical gathering reaffirms the ideological foundations of the six Southern African liberation movements… and their historical role in securing independence, dignity and development across the region. It also seeks to reassert the relevance of these movements in a rapidly shifting global order.

“Southern Africa’s liberation movements transformed the region’s political landscape, resisting colonial rule and apartheid, and ushering in people-centred governance. Since independence, these movements have implemented landmark policies on land reform, education, housing, infrastructure and social protection.

“However, these gains now face erosion due to renewed imperial pressures, economic crises, and attempts at neo-colonial interference. The Summit provides a united platform to confront these threats and consolidate progressive regional responses grounded in Pan-Africanism, internationalism and multilateralism.

“The Summit is a strategic intervention in organisational renewal, deepening intra-party solidarity, and realignment of liberation movements with the socio-economic aspirations of a new generation. The ANC believes that the political, economic and cultural survival of Southern Africa’s liberation legacy demands honest introspection, shared learning and actionable unity.

“The Summit will advance frameworks for inter-party collaboration, regional integration, youth engagement, and sovereign resource governance. Through reaffirming shared values and strengthening alliances, the 2025 Liberation Movements Summit will chart a path forward, one that protects the gains of the past while building a just, inclusive and self-determined African future.”

Further details of the conference perspectives may be read here.

Besides these six movements, the POLISARIO Front of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) and the Palestinian National Liberation Movement Fatah were also represented at a senior level, along with the South African Communist Party (SACP), Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC) of Azania, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) and the South African National Civics Organisation (SANCO).

The Communist Party of China was represented by Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Party Central Committee (IDCPC).

Among other parties represented were United Russia, the Communist Party of Cuba, the National Liberation Front (FLN) of Algeria, the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) of Nicaragua, the Botswana National Front (BNF – the main component of the progressive ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change coalition), and the Botswana Democratic Party, while messages of greetings included that from the Communist Party of the Russian Federation.

In his keynote address, Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the ANC and of the Republic of South Africa, said:

Continue reading Communist Party of China joins Liberation Movements Summit in South Africa

“If the US truly cared about the human rights of Muslims, why does it turn a blind eye to the living hell in Gaza?” – China at UN

Chinese Ambassador Fu Cong addressed a United Nations Security Council briefing on July 24, called on the initiative of Pakistan, to discuss cooperation with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The OIC is a major international body grouping 57 states. Ambassador Fu described it as “a symbol of unity and autonomy of Islamic countries” and said that China supports the UN in further deepening its cooperation with the OIC.

He added that: “With its religious, historical and cultural advantages when tackling issues that arise in the Islamic world, the OIC has a unique role to play in conflict prevention and mediation… The Palestinian issue lies at the heart of the broader situation in the Middle East and is of the greatest concern to the Islamic world. A pressing priority is to achieve a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, to ease the desperate humanitarian plight there.”

Fu Cong also directly responded to an earlier intervention from the United States, stating:

“China firmly opposes and categorically rejects the groundless accusations made by the US Representative regarding China’s Xinjiang region. Currently, Xinjiang enjoys social stability, [and] economic prosperity, where people live in peace and contentment…. If the US truly cared about the human rights of Muslims, why does it turn a blind eye to the living hell in Gaza? Why has it ignored the historical injustices suffered by the Palestinian people? The United States overlooks its own chronic problems at home, such as gun violence, racial discrimination, the trampling of its citizens’ rights and dignity.”

Speaking on behalf of the OIC, Yousef Al-Dubaie, Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs, called on the council to pressure Israel to comply with relevant UN resolutions, including for an immediate and complete cessation of the acts of genocide, massacres, starvation, and displacement of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including the occupied city of Al Quds [Jerusalem]. He also recalled the Organisation’s positions and efforts regarding Afghanistan, Jammu and Kashmir, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, the Sahel countries, Lake Chad, and the issue of the Rohingya Muslim community in Myanmar, and commended the appointment by the UN Secretary-General of a UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia.

The following articles were originally published on the websites of China’s Permanent Mission to the UN and of the OIC.

Remarks on Cooperation between the United Nations and Regional and Sub-regional Organizations (OIC) by Ambassador Fu Cong at the UN Security Council Briefing

President,

I thank the Pakistani presidency to initiate and convene this meeting. Welcome Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Ishaq Dar presiding over this meeting. And thank ASG Khalid Khiari and ASG Yousef M. Al Dobeay for their briefings.

Continue reading “If the US truly cared about the human rights of Muslims, why does it turn a blind eye to the living hell in Gaza?” – China at UN

British Defence Secretary threatens war with China

Britain’s  Defence Minister, the largely and justifiably unknown John Healey, has made an extraordinary threat to go to war with China over the question of Taiwan, an island province that Britain legally recognises – not least according to the bilateral agreement concluded in 1972 between the two countries that elevated their diplomatic relations to ambassadorial level – as part of China.

Speaking on board the HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier, after it had docked in the north Australian port of Darwin, where it is to join the United States and other countries in the warmongering Talisman Sabre exercises largely aimed at China, Healey was asked by the right wing Telegraph newspaper, “what the UK is doing to help countries like Taiwan to prepare for potential escalation from China, Mr Healey said: ‘If we have to fight, as we have done in the past, Australia and the UK are nations that will fight together. We exercise together and by exercising together and being more ready to fight, we deter better together.’”

The HMS Prince of Wales is on a nine-month deployment to the Pacific region and is widely expected to sail through the Taiwan Strait around upcoming visits to Japan and South Korea. Already, the Royal Navy provocatively sailed the HMS Spey warship through China’s Taiwan Strait on June 18. It was the first such incident in four years.

Never one to miss out on a free trip, David Lammy, Britain’s equally preposterous Foreign Secretary, accompanied Healey. He has previously said that the UK plans to conduct more so-called “freedom of navigation operations” in the Taiwan Strait.

Further underlining the gravity of the situation, the Labour supporting Mirror newspaper noted:

“In April, Keir Starmer met the crew onboard HMS Prince of Wales during an overnight stay ahead of their voyage. The PM said the mission showed the UK’s ‘leadership on global issues and security and defence’.

“‘We all know that the world is more uncertain than it felt a few months or years before – we’re in a new era,’ Mr Starmer said at the time. ‘We are sending a clear message of strength to our adversaries, and a message of unity and purpose to our allies.’”

As with most, if not all, members of the current British government, it is difficult to fathom whether Healey’s outburst represents blood-curdling bellicosity, strategic myopia, rank ignorance and stupidity, gross irresponsibility, or just plain inexperience. However, the smart money is likely to be on any combination of all of the above.

In an editorial response, the Morning Star noted that: “British troops will be engaged in provocative manoeuvres viewed by Beijing as part of Washington’s bid to encircle it militarily. That is itself part of a wider US strategy to derail China’s rise… That is the overarching war game in which Operation Talisman Sabre takes place. Britain should have no part in it.”

China’s Global Times was more hard-hitting, noting that: “Chinese observers slammed the blatant remarks over China’s internal affair, saying it was a show of residual British colonial mentality.”

It added: “Observers also pointed out that, amid warming China-Australia relations highlighted by the Australian Prime Minister’s successful July visit to China, the British defence official’s remarks attempt to place Canberra in a difficult position. Full alignment with the UK and the US is not a wise choice.”

A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in London was direct and to the point:

“If the said report is true, I am sure the UK official will regret having said that. China will never allow anyone to separate Taiwan from China in any way. Nor will China allow any external forces, the UK and Australia included, to undermine our efforts for complete reunification.”

Earlier, on July 25, the spokesperson responded to Foreign Secretary Lammy and Yvette Cooper, the tinpot totalitarian Home Secretary, having issued a joint statement making unwarranted comments on the law enforcement action taken by the Hong Kong SAR police against anti-China disruptors who have fled abroad:

“Hong Kong is China’s Hong Kong, and Hong Kong affairs are purely China’s internal affairs. China urges the UK to abandon its colonial mentality, stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs, cease meddling in China’s internal affairs, stop shielding criminals, and refrain from going further down the wrong path.”

Prior to Healey’s outburst, on 25 July 2025, the Chinese Embassy in the UK held a reception celebrating the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army of China. Ambassador Zheng Zeguang pointed out in his speech that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the recovery of Taiwan. Taiwan has been an inalienable part of China’s territory since ancient times. Both the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, issued by major victorious nations of WWII, including China and the UK, stated in explicit terms that Taiwan is a territory that Japan had stolen from the Chinese, and shall be restored to China. All these instruments have confirmed China’s sovereignty over Taiwan and formed an important part of the post-WWII international order. 

The Ambassador further emphasised that the Chinese people and their armed forces will never allow anyone to separate Taiwan from China in any way. Nor will they allow any external forces to undermine their efforts for complete reunification. All countries having diplomatic ties with China must properly handle Taiwan-related issues, which is key to the smooth development of bilateral relations with China.

Zheng Zeguang also noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. More than 80 years ago, the peoples of China and the UK fought valiantly against fascist aggression on the main Eastern Front and the European battlefield, making enormous contributions to the global victory against fascism. China’s fight was the earliest to begin, and the longest-lasting. The Chinese people suffered the most significant human and material losses before ultimately defeating Japanese aggressors.

Ambassador Zheng emphasised that it should never be forgotten that China and the UK were allies and fought shoulder to shoulder during the war. That part of history has left behind many touching stories of solidarity and mutual support in the flames of war. In 1942, Chinese fishermen from Zhoushan risked their own lives under Japanese gunfire to save 384 British prisoners of war on board Lisbon Maru, which was mistakenly torpedoed by a US submarine. Also in 1942, the Chinese Expeditionary Force successfully rescued British troops besieged by the Japanese army in Myanmar. In 1938, George Hogg, a young Briton, travelled thousands of miles to China, where he established schools, aided orphaned children and gave his life for the Chinese people’s righteous cause. We should remember history, honour those fallen heroes, cherish peace and strive for a better future.

The reception was attended by nearly 300 guests.

In characteristically pugilistic terms, George Galloway responded to Healey in his MOATS (Mother of all Talk Shows) broadcast.

Denouncing his remarks as madness, George noted that Britain, a bankrupt and broken country that has given billions to the ‘thief of Kiev’ and spends millions on reconnaissance flights to facilitate the Gaza genocide, was now threatening China with war. Referring to the 1949 Amethyst Incident, George recalled that the last time Britain had ‘sailed a gunboat up the Yangzi [river]’, the Chinese had sunk it. And China is now a far more powerful country than it was 76 years ago.

Noting the contempt shown for democracy, as highlighted by the fact that Britain’s rubber stamp parliament had not even been consulted or informed, George addressed Healey: “You little runt are threatening China with war.” A man who had never heard a shot fired in anger in his miserable life was threatening a war to be waged at the expense of the British people “and with the blood of your sons and daughters.”

Continue reading British Defence Secretary threatens war with China

China calls for peace between Cambodia and Thailand

China has called for peace and an end to the fighting between Thailand and Cambodia, saying that the root cause of this problem lies in the historical legacy left by Western colonisers, which now needs to be calmly faced and properly handled.

The call came when Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Secretary-General of ASEAN (the Association of South East Asian Nations) Kao Kim Hourn in Beijing on July 25.

Wang Yi said that China consistently prioritises ASEAN in its neighbourhood diplomacy and supports it in playing a greater role in international and regional affairs. China will work with ASEAN countries to foster a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful, and amicable home, and build an even closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future.

Under the current circumstances, Wang said, China and ASEAN should focus on cooperation in three key areas:

  • The two sides should work together to uphold free trade and the multilateral trading system. The abuse of tariffs undermines WTO (World Trade Organisation) rules, affects the stability of global industrial and supply chains, and harms other countries’ development and legitimate rights. As major forces in the Global South, China and ASEAN should strengthen solidarity and cooperation to reject unilateralism.
  • They should fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), complete negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) on schedule, and continue to properly handle South China Sea issues based on the “dual-track approach” to jointly foster a new narrative of peace, friendship, and cooperation.
  • The two sides should work together to maintain regional peace and stability. Looking around the world, conflicts and confrontations are still raging in some places, and the international situation is complex and volatile. The peace and stability in East Asia are hard-won and should be cherished. Recent clashes on the border between Cambodia and Thailand, which caused casualties, are deeply saddening and concerning. The root cause of this problem lies in the historical legacy left by Western colonisers, which now needs to be calmly faced and properly handled. As a common friendly neighbour of Cambodia and Thailand, China is ready to uphold an impartial position and continue playing a constructive role in de-escalating tensions and easing the situation.

Following July 28 talks in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur, chaired by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, in his capacity as the rotating chair of ASEAN, the two countries agreed to an “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire. “This is a vital first step towards de-escalation and the restoration of peace and security,” Anwar said.

The foreign and defence ministers of Malaysia, Cambodia and Thailand have been instructed to “develop a detailed mechanism” to implement and monitor the ceasefire to ensure sustained peace, he added. The Ambassadors of China and the United States also attended the talks.

The following article was originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry. An article, produced by Globetrotter, and published on Peoples Dispatch, provides some useful background to and analysis of the dispute.

On July 25, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Secretary-General of ASEAN Kao Kim Hourn in Beijing.

Wang Yi stated that China and ASEAN are friendly neighbors, and their all-round cooperation has increasingly deepened. China consistently prioritizes ASEAN as a priority in its neighborhood diplomacy and supports ASEAN in playing a greater role in international and regional affairs. Guided by the spirit of the Central Conference on Work Related to Neighboring Countries, its commitment to fostering an amicable, secure and prosperous neighborhood, the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, and a vision for a shared future, China will work with ASEAN countries to foster a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful, and amicable home, and build an even closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future.

Wang Yi said that under the current circumstances, China and ASEAN should focus on cooperation in three key areas. First, the two sides should work together to uphold free trade and the multilateral trading system. The abuse of tariffs undermines WTO rules, affects the stability of global industrial and supply chains, and harms other countries’ development and legitimate rights. The world must not return to the law of the jungle. As major forces in the Global South, China and ASEAN should strengthen solidarity and cooperation to reject unilateralism, safeguard WTO rules, and ensure the authority and integrity of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Second, the two sides should fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), complete negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) on schedule, promote synergies between the two platforms, and continue to properly handle South China Sea issues based on the “dual-track approach” to jointly foster a new narrative of peace, friendship, and cooperation in the South China Sea. Third, the two sides should work together to maintain regional peace and stability. Looking around the world, conflicts and confrontations are still raging in some places, and the international situation is complex and volatile. The peace and stability in East Asia are hard-won and should be cherished. Recent clashes on the border between Cambodia and Thailand, which caused casualties, are deeply saddening and concerning. The root cause of this problem lies in the historical legacy left by Western colonizers, which now needs to be calmly faced and properly handled. China appreciates and supports ASEAN’s active mediation efforts to promote dialogue, consultation, and political settlement in the “ASEAN way”. As a common friendly neighbor of Cambodia and Thailand, China is ready to uphold an impartial position and continue playing a constructive role in de-escalating tensions and easing the situation.

Kao Kim Hourn gave a positive evaluation of ASEAN-China relations and the achievements of bilateral practical cooperation, and thanked China for firmly supporting ASEAN centrality in regional cooperation and the building of ASEAN community. ASEAN looks forward to taking the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the ASEAN-China comprehensive strategic partnership in 2026 as an opportunity to seek greater strategic synergy with China and deepen practical cooperation across various fields. He said that ASEAN supports accelerating negotiations on the COC and is willing to work with China to jointly maintain regional peace and stability and uphold the multilateral trading system. On the recent border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, he expressed confidence that the leaders of the countries involved have the political wisdom to resolve this issue. The “ASEAN way” is feasible, and the ASEAN rotating chair is actively engaged in mediation in accordance with the ASEAN Charter. He thanked China for its active efforts to promote talks for peace.

Deputy President’s visit strengthens ties with South Africa

South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile recently visited China to attend the Third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE).

On July 17, he met in Beijing with his Chinese counterpart, Vice President Han Zheng.

Han said that in September last year, China and South Africa upgraded their bilateral relationship to an all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era. Han said this opened a new chapter in building a high-level community with a shared future between the two countries. He called on the two sides to further implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and to constantly deepen political mutual trust.

On the same day, Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (IDCPC), also met with Mashatile in his dual capacity of Deputy President of both the Republic of South Africa and of the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa. 

Liu said, under the leadership and personal promotion of President Xi Jinping and President Cyril Ramaphosa, China-South Africa relations have entered a golden era. China is willing to work with South Africa to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, continue to firmly support each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests and major concerns, deepen practical cooperation in various fields, and enhance friendly exchanges between the two peoples.

He added that the relationship between the two parties is an important foundation for the development of China-South Africa relations. The CPC and the ANC have maintained close communication and dialogue for a long time. The two parties understand and trust each other sincerely and have formed brotherly sentiments. The CPC will continue to stand firmly with the ANC, strengthen strategic communication and political dialogue between the two parties, deepen mutual learning in party building and state governance, and enhance collaboration on international and regional issues to jointly address common challenges.

Mashatile said that more Chinese enterprises are welcome to invest and do business in South Africa. At present, unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise. South Africa is willing to closely cooperate with China within the framework of multilateral mechanisms such as the BRICS, the United Nations and the G20 to practice true multilateralism and safeguard international fairness and justice. The ANC values its friendship with the CPC and hopes to further strengthen exchanges and cooperation between the two parties in areas such as party school building and cadre training to promote even better relations between them.

The following articles were originally published by the Xinhua News Agency and on the website of the IDCPC.

Chinese vice president meets South Africa’s deputy president

BEIJING, July 17 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Thursday met with South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile in Beijing.

In September last year, China and South Africa upgraded the bilateral relationship to an all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era. Han said this opened a new chapter in building a high-level community with a shared future between the two countries.

He called on the two sides to further implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, constantly deepen political mutual trust, advance the high-quality development of bilateral cooperation, and serve the modernization endeavors of both countries.

Continue reading Deputy President’s visit strengthens ties with South Africa