The ongoing change in global politics may unsettle the world. How will China deal with such challenges? Yu Hongjun:
Since the end of the Cold War in the early 1990s, several waves of radical changes have altered the world’s power structure. During the first wave, the Soviet Union disintegrated and drastic changes occurred in many East European countries. China adopted the policy of not interfering in their internal affairs and respecting the choices made by the people of these countries. China has established a comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination with Russia, and today, the China-Russia relationship has grown stronger.
The second wave of change took place in the Middle East and North Africa, featuring the restructuring of bilateral relations and security reconstruction. Most significantly, in some regions, armed conflict has lasted for years. In face of the geopolitical change, China has acted to uphold international fairness and justice and opposes any action that is in violation of the UN Charter and international law. It has unswervingly developed diplomatic relations with all legitimate governments in the region.
Despite changes in administration in states such as Tunisia, Egypt, Iraq and Libya, China has maintained healthy relations with those countries.
The ongoing third wave of change features rising isolationism and populism in some Western countries caused by their domestic problems. There are major challenges ahead for the European Union (EU) following the Brexit referendum in 2016. Many EU countries will hold presidential or general elections this year. China adheres to the position of supporting EU integration and a bigger role for the EU in both regional and world affairs. It will also continue to enhance its strategic partnership with the EU and adjust its policy based on new developments.