China’s Global Influence and Moral Appeal Rose Significantly in 2025 — Wang Yi

By Iyojo Ameh

China’s international influence, leadership capacity and moral appeal experienced significant growth in 2025, according to the country’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing a symposium on the international situation and China’s foreign relations.

He said China’s engagement with the world has taken a “more positive direction,” positioning the country as a central actor in global affairs.

Wang attributed the progress to what he described as the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with President Xi Jinping at its core.

He noted that China has upheld the concept of building “a community with a shared future for humanity,” advanced head-of-state diplomacy, and strengthened cooperation with progressive forces worldwide.

According to Wang, China has played multiple stabilizing roles this year:
An anchor of stability amid global conflicts and threats to peace, a regional pillar addressing new challenges in its immediate neighborhood, a defining force in the evolving international order, a key driver in tackling global development challenges, and a steadying presence in defending international justice.

Looking ahead, Wang outlined China’s diplomatic priorities for 2026, saying the country will continue to advance “major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics.”

He pledged stronger strategic support for national development and rejuvenation, as well as intensified efforts to redefine major-power relations on the global stage.

He added that Beijing will seek deeper engagement with neighboring countries to build a community with a shared future, while promoting collective modernization efforts across the Global South.

China will also expand its role in global governance, contribute to reforms in international systems, promote openness and cooperation, and safeguard national interests with a “greater sense of mission and responsibility,” he said.