full text! Wang Yi answered 27 questions in 100 minutes, and 4 of the opening 5 answers were related to Ukraine

Source: World Wide Web

The Fifth Session of the 13th National People's Congress held a press conference at 3 p.m. on March 7, 2022 (Monday) in the Press Conference Hall of the Great Hall of the People, inviting State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi to answer questions from Chinese and foreign journalists on issues related to "China's foreign policy and foreign relations".

The Foreign Ministers' Press Conference is one of the most popular press conferences at the two sessions every year, and is known for its large number of reporters, long time and answering many questions. According to statistics, today's press conference lasted 102 minutes, and Wang Yi answered 27 questions at the scene, 6 of which were related to the situation in Ukraine.

The following is the full text of Wang Yi's answer to reporters' questions:

State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi:

Dear journalists, good afternoon! It's a pleasure to meet you all again. This year has been another challenging year for the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has not yet been completely defeated, the crisis in Ukraine has followed, and the already uncertain international situation has become more complex and turbulent. At such an important juncture, what countries need is unity rather than division, dialogue rather than confrontation. As a responsible major country, China will continue to hold high the banner of multilateralism, work with all peace-loving and development-seeking countries to strengthen solidarity and cooperation, work together to meet challenges, continue to promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, and strive to open up a bright and beautiful future for the world.

I would now like to answer your questions.

CCTV: We all know that the Beijing Winter Olympics were successfully held, which is really valuable in the current international situation and the situation of the new crown epidemic. Some international people commented that compared with the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, today's China is more confident and powerful, and its international status and influence are not what they used to be. What do you think about that?

Wang Yi: With the joint efforts of China and the international community, the Beijing Winter Olympics have indeed achieved a complete success, and we have dedicated a simple, safe and wonderful Olympic event to the world, so that the world can see a more confident, self-reliant, open and inclusive China. About 170 official representatives of nearly 70 countries and international organizations attended the opening ceremony, and their support for China was demonstrated with practical actions. Here, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all friends from all countries who participated in and supported the Beijing Winter Olympics.

The success of the Beijing Winter Olympics is not only the success of China, but also the success of the world; it is not only a victory in sports, but also a victory in unity. The Winter Olympics coincided with the outbreak of the Opmi kerong virus, the escalation of regional hotspot issues, and the political interference and destruction of a few countries. But we are encouraged that most countries and peoples have chosen to unite under the Olympic spirit, injecting hope into those deeply affected by the pandemic and bringing confidence to a turbulent world.

Now, athletes from all over the world are working the Winter Paralympic games. I believe that the light of unity and cooperation gathered during the Winter Olympics will surely penetrate the haze and wind and rain and illuminate the future road for mankind to move forward hand in hand. Thank you!

Reuters: Is China disappointed that the Russian military's operations in Ukraine have been extended to non-military installations, resulting in the loss of many civilian lives and the generation of 1.5 million refugees? Why hasn't china described this as an invasion? Are you worried that China's refusal to condemn Russia will undermine its international standing? Can China do more, including by using partnerships with Russia and President Putin, to help resolve the conflict?

Wang Yi: The situation in Ukraine is the most concerned issue for the international community at present, and China has stated our position on many occasions, and we have always made judgments and made our positions independently and autonomously in an objective and impartial manner and according to the merits of the matter itself. It should be seen that freezing three feet is not a day's cold. The situation in Ukraine has developed to this day for complex reasons. To solve complex problems, we need calmness and rationality, not to add fuel to the fire and intensify contradictions. China believes that in order to resolve the current crisis, we must uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and respect and safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries; we must uphold the principle of indivisibility of security and take into account the legitimate security concerns of the parties; we must persist in settling disputes peacefully through dialogue and negotiation; and we must focus on long-term regional peace and stability and build a balanced, effective and sustainable European security mechanism.

At present, the international community should focus on two major issues and continue its efforts.

First, it is necessary to persuade peace and promote talks. China has done some work in this regard and has been maintaining close communication with all parties. The day after the conflict, when President Xi Jinping spoke to President Putin at the request, he proposed that we would like to see peace talks between Russia and Ukraine as soon as possible. President Putin also responded positively. Russia and Ukraine have already talked for two rounds, and we hope that the upcoming third round of negotiations will make new progress. China believes that the tighter the situation, the more unstoppable the peace talks, and the greater the differences, the more necessary it is to sit down for negotiations. China is willing to continue to play a constructive role in persuading peace and promoting talks, and is also willing to work with the international community to carry out necessary good offices when needed. Secondly, it is necessary to prevent large-scale humanitarian crises.

China is willing to put forward a six-point initiative in this regard: first, humanitarian operations must abide by the principle of neutrality and impartiality to prevent the politicization of humanitarian issues; second, to pay full attention to the displaced people in Ukraine and help them to be properly resettled; third, to effectively protect civilians and prevent secondary humanitarian disasters in Ukraine; fourth, to ensure the smooth and safe development of humanitarian assistance activities, including the provision of rapid, safe and barrier-free humanitarian access; fifth, to ensure the safety of foreigners in Ukraine and allow them to leave Ukraine safely. Sixth, to support the Coordinating Role of the United Nations in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and to support the work of the United Nations Crisis Coordinator in Ukraine. China is ready to continue to make its own efforts to overcome the humanitarian crisis. I would also like to announce that the Red Cross Society of China will provide a batch of emergency humanitarian assistance to Ukraine as soon as possible.

Phoenix SATELLITE TV REPORTER: At present, the world is facing a major change unprecedented in a century, entering a period of turbulent change, and the situation in Ukraine proves this. What do you think of the international community's concern about this, the risk of the world once again facing division and confrontation, the formation of a new Cold War?

Wang Yi: The world today is indeed very unstable, and the great changes that have not occurred in a hundred years are unfolding to us one after another. In order to maintain their hegemonic status, some major powers have regained the Cold War mentality and created camp antagonism, which has further aggravated turmoil and division, and made the world, which is already plagued by problems, worse.

What should we do? China firmly believes that the right way out is to strengthen solidarity and cooperation under the banner of multilateralism and work together to build a community with a shared future for mankind. As President Xi Jinping pointed out, "In the turbulent waves of global crisis, countries are not riding in more than 190 small boats, but in a big boat with a common destiny." Small boats can't withstand the wind and waves, and the giant ships can withstand the terrifying waves. ”

The imperative is to maintain peace. Peace is the premise and foundation of all development. We must uphold the concept of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, abandon the idea of exclusive security and absolute security, persist in stopping conflicts through negotiations, resolve disputes through dialogue, enhance mutual trust through cooperation, and jointly build a world of lasting peace.

The second is to promote solidarity. The world is wonderful because of its diversity, and differences should not be a reason for confrontation. We must adhere to genuine multilateralism, advocate the common values of all mankind, oppose hegemonic powers, oppose group politics, defend the international system with the United Nations at its core, safeguard the basic norms governing international relations based on the purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, and promote the development of the global governance system in a more fair and reasonable direction.

The third is to persist in opening up. Economic globalization is the trend of the times, which is not subject to human will, nor can it be cut off by geopolitical competition. We must oppose all forms of protectionism and isolationism, firmly uphold a free, fair and non-discriminatory multilateral trading system, tear down the walls of small courtyards, and jointly build open markets.

The fourth is to strengthen cooperation. In the face of global challenges, no country can stay out of the way, and no country can stand alone. We must work together to overcome difficulties, strengthen communication and coordination on global issues such as COVID-19, terrorism, climate change, and cybersecurity, gather the greatest common denominator, and draw the largest concentric circles.

In the face of a turbulent and changing world, China has always represented stability and positive energy, and has always stood in the right direction of historical progress. We will continue to bear the world in mind, shoulder our responsibilities, unswervingly hold high the banner of peace, development, cooperation and win-win results, promote the construction of a new type of international relations, promote the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind, and work together with all progressive forces in the world to seek development and move forward together for the future. Thank you!

Russia Today International News Agency: How will the growing pressure of collective sanctions imposed by the West on Russia and China affect the further development of Russian-Chinese relations? Thank you.

Wang Yi: China and Russia are both permanent members of the UN Security Council and are each other's most important close neighbors and strategic partners. As one of the most critical bilateral relations in the world, our cooperation not only brings benefits and well-being to the two peoples, but also contributes to world peace, stability and development. Last year, our two sides jointly commemorated the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Sino-Russian Treaty of Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation. In an increasingly complex international strategic environment, the concept of friendship and win-win cooperation for generations carried by this treaty has a very positive and realistic reference significance not only for China and Russia, but also for all countries in the world.

I would like to stress that Sino-Russian relations have the value of independence and self-determination, and are based on non-alignment, non-confrontation and non-targeting of third parties, let alone interference and provocation by third parties. This is not only a summary of historical experience, but also an innovation in international relations. Not long ago, the two countries jointly issued the "Joint Statement on International Relations and Global Sustainable Development in the New Era," which clearly and unmistakably stated to the world that we jointly oppose the re-establishment of the Cold War mentality, the instigation of ideological confrontation, the promotion of democratization of international relations, and the maintenance of the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations.

The development of Sino-Russian relations has a clear historical logic and a strong endogenous driving force, the friendship between the two peoples is as solid as a rock, and the prospects for cooperation between the two sides are very broad. No matter how sinister the international situation is, China and Russia will maintain their strategic determination and continuously push forward the comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination in the new era.

Xinhua News Agency: Recently, we have paid attention to the fact that China has withdrawn many batches of Chinese citizens from Ukraine. We have noted that the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in Ukraine have overcome difficulties and done a great deal of organizational and coordination work to protect the safety of citizens on the ground. In the report, we also saw that some Chinese students said very emotionally that passports are hard currency, because we have a strong motherland behind us. What do you think about this, Foreign Minister? Can you tell us about that?

Wang Yi: With the escalation of tension in Ukraine, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council are highly concerned about the safety of every compatriot in Ukraine. General Secretary Xi Jinping personally cares, has asked many questions, and asked for full efforts to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has activated the Emergency Mechanism for Consular Protection, maintained diplomatic communication with Ukraine, Russia and neighboring countries, and issued security warnings and reminders to compatriots in Ukraine.

After the sudden change in the current situation, we organized our compatriots in Ukraine to seize safety and avoid danger and provide timely assistance to compatriots who encountered difficulties. At the same time, seize the time window that appears in the war situation to organize an emergency evacuation operation. Diplomats from the Embassy in Ukraine and the Consulate General in Odessa have repeatedly gone deep into the line of fire to open a safe passage for the evacuation of Chinese citizens. China's embassies in Ukraine's neighboring countries are also operating around the clock, making every effort to resettle mainland compatriots. In close coordination, various departments and localities in the country quickly dispatched a number of chartered planes to pick up departing Ukrainian citizens from Europe one after another. In the process of organizing the evacuation and evacuation of Chinese citizens, the Ukrainian government and all sectors of society have given friendly assistance, and Russia, Moldova, Romania, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Belarus and other countries have also provided valuable support, reflecting the deep friendship with the Chinese people. On behalf of the Chinese side, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all governments and peoples!

In the evacuation operation, we in Ukraine and neighboring countries of the Chinese and overseas Chinese, overseas Chinese, Chinese-funded institutions fully mobilized, mutual assistance, once again embodied the traditional virtues of Chinese and hardships, I would also like to express sincere condolences to my compatriots. At present, there are still some compatriots who are still stranded in Ukraine due to the local situation and personal reasons, and we always keep in touch with them, providing them with all possible help according to their needs. The world is not peaceful, a netizen left a message saying that we do not live in a peaceful world, but we are lucky to have a peaceful motherland. Diplomacy for the people is always on the way. We are willing to continue to use actions to tell every overseas compatriot that no matter what time and no matter where you are, you have us by your side and the motherland behind you! Thank you!

NBC: You recently urged the US side to "return to a rational and pragmatic China policy" and push bilateral relations "back on track", and expressed your willingness to consider coordinating with the US side on the "Rebuild a Better World" global infrastructure initiative. But given that all-round competition with China has become a bipartisan consensus in the United States, are you worried that Sino-US relations will continue to deteriorate in the next step?

Wang Yi: Since last year, President Xi Jinping and President Biden have held video meetings and two phone calls, and the two sides have also carried out dialogue and exchanges at various levels. We have noted that US leaders and some senior officials have successively stated that the US side does not seek a "new Cold War," does not seek to change China's system, does not seek to strengthen alliances against China, does not support "Taiwan independence," and has no intention of clashing and confrontation with China. However, it is regrettable that this "four noes and one unintentional" statement has always floated in the air and has not landed on the ground for a long time. The fact before us is that the US side still spares no effort to carry out zero-sum game-style "fierce competition" with China, constantly attacks and provokes on issues involving China's core interests, and successively cobbles together and suppresses China's "small circle" in the international arena, which not only damages the overall situation of bilateral relations, but also impacts international peace and stability. This is not what a responsible Power should look like, nor is it what a credibility-minded State should do. As a sovereign and independent country, China has every right to take necessary measures to firmly defend its legitimate interests.

China believes that great power competition is not the theme of the times, and zero-sum game is not the right choice. In an era of interdependent globalization, how the two major powers of China and the United States can find the right way to get along is not only a problem that human society has not encountered, but also an equation that the two countries must jointly solve.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the publication of the Shanghai Communiqué. Looking back on history, in the spirit of seeking common ground while reserving differences, China and the United States have replaced confrontation with cooperation, benefiting the two peoples and promoting world peace and prosperity. Looking to the future, the two sides should regain their original intention of melting ice, repack and set out, replace the "three principles" of competition, cooperation and confrontation with the "three principles" of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, promote the return of the US China policy to the right track of rationality and pragmatism, and promote the return of Sino-US relations to a healthy and stable path.

EFE: Do you think that the increasingly close Sino-Russian relations and the Crisis in Ukraine will affect China's relations with Europe?

Wang Yi: China-EU and Sino-Russian relations are two completely different issues. As far as China-EU relations are concerned, we believe that China and Europe are the two major forces for safeguarding world peace, the two major markets for promoting common development, and the two major civilizations that promote human progress. China-EU relations are not directed, dependent on, or subject to third parties. Dialogue and cooperation between the two sides on the basis of mutual respect and mutual benefit and win-win results will provide more stabilizing factors for the turbulent world situation.

We have seen positive results in China-EU cooperation last year, and I will cite just two examples. One is that the trade volume between China and the EU exceeded 800 billion US dollars for the first time, which fully demonstrates that the economic and trade relations between China and the EU are highly complementary. There is also a figure, last year, china-Europe express trains opened more than 15,000 trains, an increase of 29% year-on-year, in order to promote international anti-epidemic cooperation, ensure the stability of the industrial chain supply chain, but also played a positive role in promoting global economic recovery.

Of course, there are still some forces that do not want to see the steady development of China-EU relations, fabricate the so-called "China threat," hype competition with China, advocate "institutional opponents," and even provoke sanctions and confrontations. I hope that both China and the EU will be highly vigilant in this regard. China-EU cooperation has gone through decades of ups and downs, is rooted in a solid public opinion foundation, broad common interests, similar strategic demands, and has strong resilience and potential, and no force can and cannot be reversed.

China has always viewed China-EU relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, and China's policy toward the EU remains stable and tenacious, and will not change due to a temporary event. We will continue to support Europe's independence and self-reliance, and support the EU's unity and prosperity. At the same time, we also hope that Europe can form a more independent and objective understanding of China, pursue a pragmatic and active China policy, jointly oppose the creation of a "new Cold War", and jointly safeguard and practice true multilateralism.

In the next step, China and the EU should do a good job in handling important political agendas such as the China-EU Leaders' Meeting, strengthen strategic docking, expand pragmatic cooperation, promote multilateral coordination, deepen people-to-people exchanges, properly manage differences, and join hands to do more practical and good things for the world. Thank you!

China Central Radio and Television Corporation: Hello Royal Commission, my question is about the "Belt and Road". Since its introduction in 2013, the "Belt and Road" has caused a very big response around the world, and we have also seen its growth rate is very obvious. However, in recent years, due to the impact of the epidemic and other factors, the development momentum of the "Belt and Road" seems to have weakened, how does China view this situation? What measures will be taken?

Wang Yi: Despite the impact of the epidemic and other factors, we have seen that the joint construction of the "Belt and Road" still maintains a good momentum.

In the past year, the "hard connection" of the "Belt and Road" infrastructure has been solidly promoted. Major projects such as the China-Laos Railway and the New Port of Haifa in Israel have been successfully completed, and the operations of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, the Port of Piraeus, the Yawan High-Speed Railway, and the Hungarian-Cypriot Railway are steadily advancing. The number of China-Europe express trains and freight traffic hit a record high, providing a strong impetus for the economic recovery of various countries.

The "soft connection" of the "Belt and Road" rule standard is full of highlights. Since last year, 10 more countries have signed "Belt and Road" cooperation documents with China, and 180 members of the "Belt and Road" family have been jointly established. We have also successfully hosted the Belt and Road High-level Conference on International Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific Region, and the Belt and Road Vaccine Cooperation and Green Development Partnership Initiatives have received wide support.

The "heart connection" of mutual help and mutual assistance of the "Belt and Road" continues to deepen. We are fully committed to helping countries fight the epidemic and carry out joint vaccine production cooperation with 20 developing countries, most of which are for the "Belt and Road" countries. There are also a large number of "small and beautiful" projects that have been steadily implemented, helping the people of the co-construction country to increase their incomes and improve their lives.

These facts fully show that the partners jointly building the "Belt and Road" are constantly expanding, the foundation of cooperation is becoming more and more solid, and the prospects for cooperation are broader, which will surely open up new development prospects for the post-epidemic era of the world.

Next, in accordance with the requirements put forward by President Xi Jinping at the third "Belt and Road" construction forum last year, we will work with the international community to continue to promote high-quality joint construction of the "Belt and Road", strive to achieve a higher level of cooperation, higher input efficiency, higher supply quality, and higher development resilience, and build the "Belt and Road" into a "development belt" that benefits the world and a "happy road" that benefits the people of all countries.

Singapore's Lianhe Zaobao: The United States is taking the Asia-Pacific region as a strategic focus, and some scholars believe that this may balance China's influence. How does China assess the concept of "Indo-Pacific and Indo-Pacific" and what impact will it have on the region? Thank you.

Wang Yi: The "Indo-Pacific strategy" of the United States is becoming synonymous with group politics. We have seen that under the banner of promoting regional cooperation, the US side is playing the trick of geopolitical games; it is shouting to return to multilateralism, but in fact it is engaged in a closed and exclusive "club"; it claims to uphold international rules, but it tries to develop another set of "gang rules" of its own. From strengthening the "Five Eyes Alliance" to peddling the "four-sided mechanism," piecing together trilateral security partnerships, and tightening bilateral military alliances, the "May 432" posture discharged by the United States in the Asia-Pacific region has brought no blessing, but has disturbed the scourge of regional peace and stability.

The real purpose of the "Indo-Pacific Strategy" is to attempt to engage in the Indo-Pacific version of "NATO," which upholds the hegemonic system led by the United States, and the impact is on the ASEAN-centered regional cooperation structure, which harms the overall and long-term interests of regional countries. This countercurrent runs counter to the common vision of regional countries to seek peace, development, promote cooperation, and strive for win-win results, and is doomed to have no future.

The Asia-Pacific region is a hot land for cooperative development, not a geopolitical chess game. China has always taken root in the Asia-Pacific region, built the Asia-Pacific region and benefited the Asia-Pacific region. We all welcome initiatives that conform to regional realities and meet the needs of all parties; we firmly oppose the idea of provoking regional confrontation and creating camp antagonism. China is willing to work with all parties to distinguish between right and wrong, adhere to the right path, resist the "Indo-Pacific" confrontation with the "small circle", jointly build a "big stage" for Asia-Pacific cooperation, and work together to move towards a community with a shared future in the Asia-Pacific region. Thank you!

People's Daily: Hello Royal Commission, the world economic recovery is facing severe challenges, and the global development initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping has received widespread attention and expectations from the international community. Can you update on the progress of the initiative to advance implementation? Thank you.

Wang Yi: Indeed, the epidemic has seriously impacted the global development process, especially developing countries. Against this background, President Xi Jinping solemnly put forward the global development initiative at the United Nations, the purpose of which is to call on all countries to pay more attention to development issues, so as to form a synergy and meet the challenges together.

At the heart of the initiative is people-centred, with the most important goal being to help implement the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The initiative is highly responsive to the needs of all parties and has been quickly supported by the United Nations and the response of nearly 100 countries. In January, the Group of Friends of the Global Development Initiative met for the first time at United Nations Headquarters in New York, bringing together representatives of more than 100 countries and more than 20 international organizations to build a broader international consensus on the implementation of the initiative.

China has always believed that sustainable development is good development, and development together is true development. We are willing to work with all parties to promote the gradual implementation of the initiative from four aspects: First, docking key areas. Focus on the most urgent issues facing developing countries, especially poverty alleviation and poverty alleviation, food security, economic recovery, employment training, education and health, green development, etc., and carry out pragmatic cooperation in these areas to promote the realization of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 as scheduled. The second is to dock the needs of various countries. Adhering to the spirit of open and inclusive partnership, adhering to joint consultation, co-construction and sharing, all parties are welcome to flexibly participate in this initiative in combination with their actual needs or superior resources. The third is the docking cooperation mechanism. We are willing to work with all interested countries and regions and international organizations, especially the United Nations system, and we are willing to synergize with the development process of small islands, landlocked and least developed countries, give full play to their respective advantages and form a global synergy. The fourth is to connect with partners from all walks of life. Attach importance to the role of the private sector, non-governmental organizations, expert think tanks, the media and other sectors in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, and welcome suggestions and active participation of all parties.

In short, the Global Development Initiative is another major initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping after the "Belt and Road", a "remobilization" of global development cooperation, a "reconfirmation" of the core human rights concept of people-centeredness, a "road map" for narrowing the north-south divide and solving the development imbalance, and an "accelerator" for promoting the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We are willing to work with other countries to actively explore and implement this important initiative, so that no country will be left behind, no demand will be ignored, and no one will be left behind, so as to jointly build a global development community.

Asia News: Last year marked the 30th anniversary of the establishment of dialogue relations between China and ASEAN. Since then, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has entered into force. In the face of the challenges of the epidemic, the South China Sea, Myanmar and other issues, how does China plan to deepen its relations with ASEAN?

Wang Yi: 30 years ago, China and ASEAN established dialogue relations and walked in the forefront of regional cooperation. Thirty years later, China and ASEAN have established a comprehensive strategic partnership, setting an example of good-neighborliness and friendship. Over the past 30 years, China and ASEAN have followed the favorable times, geographical advantages, and gathered people, and have embarked on a bright road of neighborhood affinity and win-win cooperation, creating the most dynamic and potential regional cooperation model.

China-ASEAN relations are not the best, they will only be better. Looking forward to the future, China is willing to work with ASEAN countries not to forget the original intention of maintaining stability and tranquility, uphold the mission of achieving common development, adhere to the way of mutual understanding, mutual accommodation, mutual help and mutual assistance in the way of neighborly coexistence, promote bilateral relations to move forward as fast as the train running on the China-Laos railway, and continuously achieve new achievements in building a closer China-ASEAN community of common destiny to better benefit the people of both sides.

We should be advocates of international anti-epidemic cooperation. Deepen cooperation in the fields of joint production of vaccines and research and development of key drugs, so that the "health shield" built by the two sides is unbreakable, and the "fast channel" and "green channel" built by the two sides run smoothly, so as to protect the lives and health of people in all countries in the region. We want to be leaders in regional cooperation. Promote the full and effective implementation of RCEP, start the construction of version 3.0 of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area as soon as possible, expand cooperation in new fields such as blue, green and digital economy, jointly build new channels for international land and sea trade, and create a new benchmark for regional cooperation. We must be the guardians of stability in the Asia-Pacific region. Calling for peace, stability and prosperity is the common aspiration of countries in the region. The Asia-Pacific region is not a "chessboard" in the great power game, and ASEAN countries are not "chess pieces" in geopolitical competition, but important "chess players" in promoting regional development and prosperity. We will continue to regard ASEAN as the priority direction of China's diplomacy, firmly safeguard the ASEAN-centered regional cooperation framework, safeguard the status of the Southeast Asia nuclear-weapon-free zone, safeguard regional peace and stability, support the mediation of regional hotspot issues in the ASEAN way, and oppose the manufacture of bloc confrontation and separatist confrontation in the region. Thank you!

Kyodo News Agency: This year marks the 50th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between China and Japan. President Xi Jinping said: "This year is an important historical node, and we hope to open up new prospects for the development of bilateral relations." "Although there are still some differences between China and Japan, all walks of life in the two countries are looking forward to better exchanges." How does China view China-Japan relations in the new era, and what kind of activities does China have in China this year? Thank you.

Wang Yi: This year marks the 50th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between China and Japan, and it is also an important opportunity for both sides to sum up history and create a better future together. 50 years ago, in order to achieve peace and friendship between China and Japan, the leaders of the older generation of the two countries made a major decision on the normalization of diplomatic relations with great political courage. Over the past 50 years, exchanges and cooperation between the two sides have been expanding, bringing important benefits to the two peoples. Last year, the leaders of the two countries reached an important consensus on building Sino-Japanese relations that meet the requirements of the new era, which pointed out the direction for the development of relations in the next step.

At the same time, we must also see that at present, Sino-Japanese relations are still facing some differences and challenges, especially there are always some people in Japan who do not want to see China's rapid development and do not want to see the stability of Sino-Japanese relations. I would like to take this opportunity to give three pieces of advice to the Japanese side:

First of all, we must not forget our original intention and grasp the correct direction of bilateral relations. It is necessary to earnestly abide by the principles and spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan, practice the important consensus of "mutual cooperation, no threat to each other" and "mutual support for each other's peaceful development", and ensure that bilateral relations always develop in the direction of peace and friendship. Second, it is necessary to keep our promises and safeguard the political foundation of bilateral relations. Major sensitive issues such as history and Taiwan have a bearing on the foundation of mutual trust between China and Japan. The foundation is not firm, and the ground is shaking. It is hoped that the Japanese side will scrupulously abide by the series of solemn commitments it has made so far on these issues and avoid another serious impact on bilateral relations. Third, it is necessary to follow the trend and jointly create broad prospects for bilateral relations. The replacement of unilateralism and hegemonism by the multipolarization of the world and the democratization of international relations are historical inevitability, and the cold war alliance and geopolitical confrontation have long been unpopular. The Japanese side should go with the flow, not move against the current, do not do things for others to take the chestnut in the fire, and do not go astray with their neighbors as the enemy. It is necessary to truly take history as a mirror and face the future, and make Japan's due contribution to regional peace, stability, and development.

China News Service: In the past year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has done a lot of work to help Chinese citizens abroad to alleviate difficulties and difficulties. What new measures will the Ministry of Foreign Affairs take this year to continue to practice diplomacy for the people?

Wang Yi: In the past year, it has not been easy for the vast number of overseas Chinese citizens, and the global epidemic, natural disasters, political turmoil, and military conflicts have threatened the safety of overseas compatriots at any time, and of course, they have touched the hearts of the people of the motherland. Overseas compatriots can't go home for a while, so we bring the warmth of home to them.

Over the past year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and embassies and consulates abroad have gone all out to promote the "Spring Seedling Action" around the world, vaccinate millions of Chinese compatriots living and working in 180 countries. The 12308 hotline is on standby 24 hours a day, accepts more than 500,000 calls for help throughout the year, handles more than 60,000 cases of consular protection and assistance, successfully rescues dozens of kidnapped Chinese citizens, and fully protects the life safety and legitimate rights and interests of overseas compatriots. On the eve of last year's National Day, after unremitting efforts, Ms. Meng Wanzhou, who had been illegally detained for more than a thousand days, finally returned to China safely, saying that "if faith has color, it must be Chinese red", which expressed the common voice of 1.4 billion Chinese people.

Serving the people and relieving the people's worries is the due responsibility of diplomatic work. China's diplomacy will continue to uphold the people-centered purpose, be a caring person for the broad masses of the people, and be a guardian of the interests of overseas compatriots. This year, we will focus on three things: First, we will build a "smart consular platform", launch more "fingertip" service projects, and improve digital and all-weather consular services. The second is to build an "overseas safe China system", strengthen overseas security risk early warning, guide overseas enterprises to strengthen security construction, and provide more effective and timely security guarantees for overseas compatriots. The third is to launch the "Healthy Travel Plan", create an upgraded version of the "fast track" for Chinese and foreign personnel exchanges, and launch an enhanced version of the "International Travel Health Certificate" to help safe, healthy and convenient cross-border travel.

Yonhap News Agency: The DPRK nuclear issue seems to be becoming more and more difficult to resolve, but as the host of the DPRK's six-party nuclear talks, what specific plans does China have to restart the political settlement process? The Chinese government has always advocated the easing of sanctions against the DPRK, but if the DPRK conducts a nuclear test or launches an intercontinental ballistic missile, will the Chinese side still oppose the strengthening of sanctions against the DPRK? China and the ROK are about to usher in the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, but recently the negative sentiment towards each other in the two countries has risen, how does China want to develop bilateral relations? Thank you.

Wang Yi: There is an old saying in China that the cure must cure the root cause, and the correction of errors must be corrected. The "root" of the Korean Peninsula issue lies in the fact that the external security threats facing the DPRK have not been eliminated for a long time, and the legitimate security concerns of the DPRK side have never been fundamentally resolved.

We believe that to resolve the Korean Peninsula issue, all parties need to move in the same direction. We have seen that since 2018, the DPRK has taken a series of positive measures aimed at promoting dialogue, but so far it has not received its due return, which is not in line with the "action-to-action" principle that has been agreed upon by all parties, which has made the AL-DPRK-US mutual trust worse, and has also made various dialogue proposals eventually become empty slogans.

We have noted that the US side recently publicly stated that it has no hostility toward the DPRK and is willing to solve the problem through diplomatic means. But where to go next depends largely on what the US side does: whether it will really come up with concrete actions to solve the problem, or will it continue to use the Peninsula issue as a geostrategic chip?

China once again calls on the United States to take practical measures to address the DPRK's legitimate security concerns, establish basic mutual trust with the DPRK, and at the same time continuously advance the political settlement process of the Peninsula issue in accordance with the "dual-track" approach and the principle of "going in stages and in parallel". China is ready to continue to play a constructive role and make due efforts to that end.

With regard to Sino-ROK relations, China and the ROK are friendly neighbors with profound historical ties. Chinese often say that "distant relatives are not as good as close neighbors". There is also a saying in South Korea that "three copper plates buy a house, and a thousand and two gold buy neighbors" This year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the ROK, and over the past 30 years, Sino-ROK relations have withstood the tests of various vicissitudes and achieved comprehensive and rapid development. Facts have proved that China and South Korea are not rivals, but partners with intertwined interests, complementary advantages and great potential. We are willing to take the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with the ROK as an opportunity to carry forward the tradition of friendship, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and better achieve common development.

Kazakhstan 24KZ TV: This year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Central Asian countries. In January, China and the five Central Asian countries held a video summit on the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, marking a new era in China's Central Asian relations. The parties put forward specific proposals on deepening cooperation in the political, economic, trade, cultural, cultural and security fields. What specific measures does China plan to take to implement the set goals, including increasing the number of goods over the border between China and Central Asian countries? Thank you.

Wang Yi: This year, there have been many great events and happy events in China's relations with Central Asia. At the beginning of the year, President Xi Jinping and the heads of state of the five countries held a video summit to solemnly celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two sides. Subsequently, the heads of state of the five countries gathered in Beijing to attend the "Covenant of the Winter Olympics".

China has always maintained that a developing, prosperous, stable and vibrant Central Asia conforms to the common interests of China and regional countries. In line with the four principles of mutual respect, good-neighborliness and friendship, mutual assistance and mutual benefit and win-win results, China will continue to work with Central Asian countries to build a strategic partnership with rich connotations, fruitful results and lasting friendship, and continue to promote the construction of a China-Central Asia community of common destiny.

China's relations with the five Central Asian countries are in the golden age of thirty years, showing broad prospects for vigorous development. China is willing to work with the five countries to implement the outcomes of the summit on the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two sides, strengthen the "China + Central Asian Five" cooperation mechanism, expand and deepen cooperation in the fields of anti-epidemic, production capacity, energy, agriculture, humanities, digital economy and green development, firmly support each other on core interest issues, build a closer China-Central Asia community of common destiny, and create a more exciting 30 years of bilateral relations.

Global Times: Many people believe that US democracy is facing an unprecedented crisis, but the Us are still constantly attacking and smearing China's democratic system, using "democracy" as an ideological line to contain and suppress China. The "democracy summit" held by the United States last year was recognized as unsuccessful, or even very unsuccessful, but the United States still announced that it would hold an offline "democracy summit" this year. What is China's comment on this? How do you plan to respond?

Wang Yi: Last year, the United States held the so-called "democracy summit" under the banner of "democracy," excluding nearly half of the world's countries, blatantly drawing ideological lines, and creating divisions in the world.

China's whole process of people's democracy is an extensive, real and effective democracy, which has won the wholehearted support of the Chinese people. In January, Edelman, the world's largest public relations consultancy, released a report on the global trust barometer, pointing out that in 2021, the Chinese people's trust in the government will reach 91%, ranking first in the world and reaching a new high in 10 years. Harvard University in the United States has also produced similar polls for many years in a row. These polls are all third-party polls, from which it can be seen that the world recognizes China's democracy, and we are more confident in our own path.

We believe that the garden of human civilization is rich and colorful, and the democracy of all countries should blossom. Delineating "democratic standards" according to the American model is precisely a manifestation of undemocraticism. Interfering in the internal affairs of other countries under the guise of "democracy" can only cause the people to suffer. Solipsism is not only not a democratic righteousness, but also a disaster for democracy.

We look forward to exchanges and mutual learning with all countries in an attitude of equality, carry forward the true spirit of democracy, peel off all kinds of pseudo-democratic masks, earnestly promote the democratization of international relations, and promote the continuous advancement of the cause of human progress.

Bloomberg: In recent months, military operations around the Taiwan Strait have increased significantly, and the situation in the Taiwan Strait was once tense. Many worry about whether Chinese mainland will act against Taiwan, as Russia did with Ukraine, to reclaim territory by force. May I ask, what do China think are the similarities and differences between the two? How do you view the possibility of conflict in the Taiwan Strait?

Wang Yi: First of all, it should be clear that the Taiwan issue is fundamentally different from the Ukrainian issue, and there is no comparison between the two. The most fundamental difference is that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, the Taiwan issue is entirely China's internal affair, and the Ukrainian issue is a dispute between Russia and Ukraine. We have seen that some people emphasize the principle of sovereignty on the Ukrainian issue, but on the Taiwan issue they are constantly undermining China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The situation in the Taiwan Strait is facing tension, where are the root causes? The facts are very clear, and it lies in the fact that the DPP authorities refuse to agree with the one-China principle, attempt to change the status quo in which both sides of the strait belong to one China, and distort Taiwan's history and sever Taiwan's roots by vigorously engaging in "two Chinas" and "one China, one Taiwan." In the end, Taiwan's future will certainly be buried. However, in order to curb China's rejuvenation, some US forces have connived at and instigated the development of "Taiwan independence" forces, challenged and hollowed out the one-China principle, seriously violated the basic norms governing international relations, and seriously undermined peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, which will not only push Taiwan into a dangerous situation, but will also bring unbearable consequences to the US side.

What I want to emphasize is that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait have the same history, the same roots, and the same China. The hope for Taiwan's future lies in the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and in the realization of national reunification, rather than relying on any external "empty cheque." There is no way out of "relying on foreign countries to seek independence," "using Taiwan to control China" is doomed to failure, and Taiwan will eventually return to the embrace of the motherland.

CGTN reporter: Hello to the Kingdom. We note that China will assume the BRICS presidency this year, while the APEC Economic Leaders' Informal Meeting and the G20 Leaders' Summit will also be held in Asian countries. How does China view this phenomenon, and what role does China expect emerging and developing countries to play in global governance?

Wang Yi: The BRICS countries are a model for emerging markets and developing countries to strengthen themselves together, and are a key force in promoting global governance. After five years, the baton of the BRICS presidency has once again been handed over to China. We will host the BRICS Summit and will carry out more than 160 activities. Together with other BRICS countries, we will deepen BRICS cooperation around the theme of "building high-quality partnerships and creating a new era of global development", refine the "color" of BRICS, polish the "golden signboard" of South-South cooperation, and convey hope and confidence for all countries to work together to defeat the epidemic and promote world economic recovery.

We will lead the reform of the global governance system with the concept of fairness and justice, and put forward the "BRICS proposition" of global governance in the post-epidemic era. Focus on vaccine cooperation, expand public health cooperation, and build a "BRICS defense line" against the epidemic. With the comprehensive deepening of cooperation in economy and trade, finance, innovation, digital economy, green development, poverty reduction and poverty alleviation as the starting point, we will lay a "BRICS Express" to accelerate global development. Taking the opportunity of deepening BRICS +cooperation, we will strengthen strategic coordination between emerging markets and developing countries and make "BRICS contributions" to building a global development partnership.

This year, China, Thailand and Indonesia will host the BRICS Leaders' Meeting, the APEC Economic Leaders' Informal Meeting, and the G20 Leaders' Summit, respectively, and global governance will enter "Asia time". We expect emerging markets and developing countries to change from "runners" of global governance to "runners" or even "frontrunners", play a more active role, make a louder voice, lead the international order to evolve in a more just and reasonable direction, and promote the development of globalization in a more open, inclusive, inclusive, balanced and win-win direction.

Press Trust of India: India-China relations have been in a slump for three consecutive years, how does China view the prospects for the development of bilateral relations?

Wang Yi: China-India relations have encountered some setbacks in recent years, and this situation is completely inconsistent with the fundamental interests of China and India and the two peoples. With regard to the border issues left over from history, China has always advocated managing differences through consultation on an equal footing and actively seeking a just and reasonable solution. I think this should make sense.

We have seen that there are always some forces trying to stir up contradictions between China and India and create divisions between regions, but this practice is causing more and more people of insight to reflect and be vigilant. Everyone is more and more soberly aware that in large countries like China and India, with a population of more than one billion, only by adhering to independence and self-determination can we firmly grasp our destiny in our own hands and truly realize the development and rejuvenation of our respective countries.

The combined population of China and India is more than 2.8 billion, accounting for one-third of the world's total. When our two countries achieve stable development and harmonious coexistence, we will have a solid foundation for world peace and prosperity. As an Indian proverb goes, "Help your brother cross the river with a boat and you'll be able to get to the other side." It is hoped that the Indian side, together with the Chinese side, will adhere to the strategic consensus of "not posing a threat to each other and providing each other with development opportunities", persist in enhancing mutual trust, avoiding misunderstanding and misjudgment, acting as partners in mutual achievements and inappropriate opponents of mutual consumption, ensuring that bilateral relations move forward on the right track, bringing greater well-being to the two peoples and making more contributions to the region and the world.

China-Arab Satellite TV: Last year, you visited many countries in the Middle East and put forward a number of initiatives on achieving peace and stability in the Middle East. At the beginning of this year, you also received a visit to China by the foreign ministers of the Middle East and the secretary-general of the GCC. What measures will China take to resolve hotspots in the Middle East region and constructively participate in Middle East affairs?

Wang Yi: For a long time, security and development have been two major problems plaguing Middle Eastern countries. As a strategic partner of Middle Eastern countries, China has always pursued the "two supports", that is, supporting Middle Eastern countries to unite and cooperate to solve regional security issues, and supporting the people of the Middle East to independently explore their own development path.

Over the past year and more, China has successively put forward the five-point initiative on achieving security and stability in the Middle East, the four-point proposal for a political settlement of the Syrian issue, and the implementation of the Palestinian-Israeli "two-state solution", aiming to promote dialogue to resolve hotspot issues and achieve regional security and common security. At the same time, China and countries in the Middle East have joined hands to fight the epidemic and promote cooperation in vaccine production and drug research and development. Accelerating the construction of the free trade area between China and the Gulf States and launching the comprehensive cooperation agreement between China and Iran have provided positive impetus to promote the development of the Middle East.

China has always played a constructive role in the Middle East, and we have never sought any geopolitical self-interest, let alone fill the so-called power vacuum. In the past few decades, it is precisely because some extraterritorial powers have competed to intervene in the affairs of the Middle East that they have caused one harm to the Middle East region and the people of the Middle East. Today, in the 21st century, we believe that this situation should not continue. We should thoroughly hand over the power to safeguard security and development in the Middle East to the people of the Middle East, and support the countries of the Middle East in seeking peace through unity, seeking stability through self-improvement, and seeking development through cooperation, so as to truly achieve long-term peace and prosperity in the Middle East region.

Shenzhen Satellite TV: We have seen that China's relations with the South Pacific island countries have been deepening, especially when Tonga, Kiribati and other countries are affected by volcanic disasters and the impact of the new crown epidemic, China is the first to lend a helping hand. Considering that some countries continue to interfere with and undermine China's relations with the South Pacific Island countries, what are your views on the prospects for China's relations with the South Pacific Island countries? Thank you.

Wang Yi: China's diplomacy has always insisted on equality for all countries, large and small. That is why we have always had a special interest and support for small island States such as the Countries of the South Pacific.

We are willing to respect and trust each other and treat each other as equals with South Pacific countries, and support South Pacific countries to firmly follow a development path that suits their national conditions. We are willing to help each other and meet the challenges with the South Pacific countries. As you said, The Chinese side rushed to the rescue of the Tonga volcano disaster at the first time, supported the Solomon Islands in maintaining stability and stopping the violence, and provided vaccines and medical equipment to the South Pacific countries where the outbreak occurred, showing the spirit of a community of common destiny in the same boat. We are willing to learn from each other and cooperate with South Pacific countries for win-win results. Jointly build the "Belt and Road" with high quality and continue to provide economic and technical assistance without attaching political conditions. The China-Pacific Island Countries Emergency Materials Reserve Has been opened, and the Climate Change Cooperation Center and the Poverty Reduction and Development Cooperation Center will be completed soon.

China has always been a good friend that The South Pacific countries can trust, and is willing to jointly build a new model of mutual support, solidarity and cooperation between countries of different sizes and systems.

Straits Times: The negotiations on the "Code of Conduct in the South China Sea" were expected to end at the end of this year, but there are differences between Southeast Asia and foreign countries to carry out joint military exercises and whether the "Code of Conduct in the South China Sea" should have legal effect. Are you optimistic that China and regional countries will overcome these differences? Do you think the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea should have legal effect?

Wang Yi: When I raise this question, the first thing that comes to mind is the Declaration on the Conduct of All Parties in the South China Sea. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. Over the past 20 years, China and ASEAN countries have jointly implemented the provisions of the Declaration and maintained the overall stability of the situation in the South China Sea, which should be fully affirmed first. Of course, to achieve long-term peace and stability in the South China Sea, we need to achieve more substantive and effective regional rules, that is, to have an upgraded version of the declaration. To this end, when the declaration was signed that year, all parties clearly regarded the formulation of the "Code of Conduct in the South China Sea" as a long-term goal.

We have seen that since China and ASEAN countries launched the COOPS consultations, many positive developments have been made. In the past two years, mainly because of the impact of the epidemic, the pace of the consultation process has indeed slowed down. However, China has always been full of confidence in the prospects of reaching the CoD, because advancing COOPS consultations serves the common interests of China and ASEAN countries and is also a key move to ensure that the South China Sea becomes a sea of peaceful cooperation. The Guidelines will not only conform to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, but will also provide more effective safeguards for the legitimate rights and interests of countries outside the territory. Now that the consultations have entered a critical stage, we hope that all parties will pay attention to and deal with two things:

First, we must correctly view differences. There will be different opinions in any negotiation, and the same is true for the "COR" consultation, but as long as the parties bear in mind that our goals are the same, there is no difference that cannot be bridged and no consensus that cannot be reached. Second, we must resolutely eliminate interference. We see that some countries outside the region are not happy to see the norms reached, nor do they want the South China Sea to be calm, because this will make them lose the excuse to meddle in the South China Sea and seek private interests. It is hoped that ASEAN countries will see this clearly and jointly resist interference and sabotage from the outside. I believe that extraterritorial countercurrents cannot set off storms in the South China Sea, and external interference cannot stop the pace of regional cooperation.

Pakistan's YNEWS: Last year, the international community witnessed the "Kabul moment" of the hasty withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan. Afghanistan is currently facing a serious humanitarian crisis and the threat of terrorism. How does China believe that all parties should support Afghanistan in tidestling through the difficulties?

Wang Yi: The United States has irresponsibly left a deep humanitarian crisis for the Afghan people and brought huge security challenges to regional stability. At present, Afghanistan is in a critical period of chaos and governance, and I believe that all parties should support the Afghan people in actively exploring a development path that suits their national conditions in line with the principle of "Afghan-led and Afghan-owned". It is imperative to race against time and accelerate the delivery of humanitarian assistance. We call for the immediate lifting of the freeze on Afghan assets in the United States and various unilateral sanctions, the unconditional return of assets belonging to the Afghan people, the avoidance of causing "secondary harm" to the Afghan people, and the help of Afghanistan survive the cold winter and usher in the spring.

China has extended a helping hand to Afghanistan for the first time and will continue to add new assistance according to the needs of the Afghan people. We are preparing for the Third Foreign Ministers' Meeting of Afghanistan's Neighbors and are willing to give full play to the advantages of our neighbors and contribute to the long-term peace and stability of Afghanistan.

CCTV: At the beginning of this year, you successfully visited three African countries, which also continues the tradition of the Chinese foreign minister's first visit to Africa every year for 32 consecutive years. What measures will China take to implement the outcomes of the 8th Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and further promote China-Africa cooperation? Some foreign media believe that China has created a "debt trap" in Africa. What is your response to this?

Wang Yi: The Chinese Foreign Minister's first visit to Africa every year reflects China's firm support for Africa's development and revitalization. Over the years, China has built more than 10,000 kilometers of railways, nearly 100,000 kilometers of roads, nearly 100 ports, and countless hospitals and schools in Africa. These are not "debt traps", but monuments of cooperation.

Last year was a big year for China-Africa cooperation, the two sides successfully held the eighth ministerial meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, and President Xi Jinping announced the "Nine Projects" for Africa cooperation, promoting the construction of a community with a shared future between China and Africa in the new era, and injecting new and strong impetus into the development of China-Africa relations. This year marks the beginning of the implementation of the outcome of the Forum's Ministerial Meeting. China has kept its promises in cooperation with Africa and has never issued "empty checks." We will vigorously carry forward the "spirit of China-Africa friendship and cooperation" and work with African countries to focus on three tasks: First, vigorously promote anti-epidemic cooperation with Africa. Fully implement President Xi Jinping's commitment to provide 1 billion doses of vaccines to Africa, help Africa improve its vaccine localization production capacity, and help achieve the goal of 60% of The African population by 2022. The second is to promote the upgrading of China-Africa pragmatic cooperation. Accelerate the high-quality joint construction of the "Belt and Road" and achieve the early harvest of the "Nine Projects". Promote the alignment of the Global Development Initiative with the AU's Agenda 2063 to support Africa's economic recovery and sustainable development with practical actions. The third is to promote the "Concept of Peaceful Development in the Horn of Africa". The Chinese side has appointed a special envoy for the Horn of Africa affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is willing to communicate extensively with regional countries and play a constructive role in peace and development in the Horn of Africa and the entire African continent.

LAC: In 2021, China and Nicaragua will resume diplomatic relations, Argentina will join the Belt and Road Initiative, and China-Latin America relations will move forward. How do you evaluate the current situation of China-Latin America relations? What is your response to accusations that some countries, such as the United States, have accused China of cooperating with Latin America in search of geopolitical influence?

Wang Yi: I want to emphasize that Latin America is a hot land full of hope and vitality, not anyone's "backyard". What the Latin American people need is fairness and justice and win-win cooperation, not power politics and hegemony.

China and Latin America are both developing countries, and the common desire for independence, self-reliance, development and revitalization makes the "Chinese Dream" and the "Latin American Dream" closely linked. Since the outbreak of covid-19, China has actively carried out anti-epidemic cooperation with Latin America and latin America, including the Caribbean, and has provided nearly 400 million doses of vaccines and nearly 40 million pieces of anti-epidemic materials to Latin America, including the Caribbean. Last year, trade between China and Latin America exceeded $400 billion for the first time. We also successfully held the third ministerial meeting of the "China-Latin America Forum" and reached a new and broad consensus on deepening china-Latin America strategic mutual trust and pragmatic cooperation in key areas in the next three years.

As the Latin American proverb goes, "True friends can touch your heart from the other side of the world." China will continue to work with Latin American friends to deepen friendship, broaden cooperation, and actively build a community with a shared future between China and Latin America.

Antalara News Agency indonesia: Indonesia and China are getting closer and closer, bilateral trade volume has increased significantly, and the Yawan high-speed railway will start operating at the end of the year. This year, Indonesia will become the chairmanship of the G20, how will China support Indonesia to do a good job in this regard?

Wang Yi: I am very happy to have the opportunity to answer questions from Indonesian reporters. Both China and Indonesia represent large developing countries and emerging economies, and the common interests of the two countries are extensive and their development potential is huge. Under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Indonesia relations have developed into a model of mutually beneficial cooperation among regional countries and a model for the joint self-reliance of developing countries.

During the epidemic period, China took the lead in providing anti-epidemic assistance to Indonesia and took the lead in carrying out cooperation with Indonesia in the research and development of vaccines and covid-19 special drugs. To date, 290 million doses of vaccine have been provided to Indonesia, the largest number of vaccines to Indonesia. China's joint construction of the "Belt and Road" initiative and Indonesia's "Regional Comprehensive Economic Corridor" are deeply connected, and the trade volume between the two countries increased by nearly 60% year-on-year last year. The two sides also successfully launched the high-level dialogue and cooperation mechanism, and a new pattern of bilateral cooperation with "four-wheel drive" of politics, economy, culture and maritime has taken shape.

In the next step, China will deepen cooperation with Indonesia in the whole vaccine industry chain, ensure that Indonesia builds a regional vaccine production center, and jointly build a regional anti-epidemic shield. Promote the early completion and opening of the Yawan high-speed railway, so as to provide greater acceleration for promoting Indonesia's post-epidemic development and enhancing mutually beneficial cooperation between the two sides.

This year, Indonesia will host the G20 Leaders' Summit. China will certainly actively provide support and assistance, promote cooperation in innovation, digital, green and health areas around the theme of the summit of "common recovery, strong recovery", effectively safeguard the interests of emerging markets and developing countries, and promote the G20 to make greater contributions to promoting world economic recovery and improving global governance.

China Daily: This year, the China Daily client continues to solicit questions from global netizens, and one of the questions is of particular concern to everyone. Last year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs made a lot of efforts to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken the initiative to tell the story of the Chinese Communist Party in the world. This year will usher in the 20th National Congress of the Party. How do you think China should continue to tell the story of the Chinese Communist Party internationally?

Wang Yi: That's a good question. The Chinese Constitution clearly stipulates the ruling position of the Communist Party of China, and makes it clear that the leadership of the Party is the most essential feature of socialism with Chinese characteristics and the greatest advantage of the socialist system with Chinese characteristics. Telling the story of the Communist Party of China well, establishing a name for the party, justifying the party's name, and making a name for the party is the proper meaning of China's diplomacy, and it is also our important duty.

Last year, on the occasion of the centenary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, we launched the "100 Days to Tell 100 Stories of the Communist Party of China's Foreign Exchanges", invited diplomats from various countries in China and international mainstream media to visit Red Memorial Sites such as Yan'an and Jiaxing, and Held More Than 4,000 Colorful Activities to Celebrate the Centenary of the Founding of the Communist Party of China at Chinese Embassies and Consulates Abroad Around the World, which were warmly welcomed by friends from all over the world.

We deeply feel that the international community is now paying more attention to the CPC and is more identified with the CPC. More and more foreign friends admire the great achievements made by the leadership of the Communist Party of China Chinese people, and more and more countries want to understand the secret of the success of the Communist Party of China. Last month, when Argentine President Fernandez came to China to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics, he paid a special visit to the History Exhibition Hall of the Communist Party of China to pay tribute to all the Chinese and people and the development progress they have made. We have noticed that the international community's eyes on the CPC have become brighter, the perspective of observing the CPC has become broader, and its understanding of the CPC has become deeper and more comprehensive.

As General Secretary Xi Jinping pointed out, "To understand today's China, we must understand the Chinese Communist Party." "This year, we will take the opportunity of welcoming the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China to continue to tell the story of the Chinese Communist Party to the international community and help more foreign friends truly understand the Chinese Communist Party."