1. Emphasis on Sovereignty and Non-Interference
Wang Yi (China):
Wang Yi consistently emphasizes respect for national sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs. For example, in response to EU sanctions over Xinjiang, he criticized them as "based on lies" and lacking legal or factual basis, asserting that such actions violate international norms. China's diplomacy rejects "the law of the jungle" and advocates for equality among nations, regardless of size.
Key Quote: "China will remain committed to peace, development, cooperation, and mutual benefit... and stand against hegemonism."
US/EU:
The US and EU often adopt a values-driven approach, linking diplomacy to human rights, democracy, and rule of law. They frequently use sanctions or conditional aid to pressure other nations (e.g., sanctions on China over Xinjiang). This approach is more interventionist, aiming to shape domestic policies of other states.
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2. Tone: Assertive vs. Confrontational
Wang Yi (China):
His tone is assertive but calibrated, combining firmness with diplomatic finesse. For instance, while condemning EU sanctions, he framed China's response as a defense of international law rather than mere retaliation. He also emphasizes dialogue, as seen in his efforts to mediate in Iran nuclear talks.
US/EU:
The US tends toward direct confrontation, especially under administrations like Trump’s (e.g., trade wars, blunt rhetoric about China as a "threat"). The EU, while softer, still employs public condemnations (e.g., joint sanctions with the US).
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3. Approach to Global Governance
Wang Yi (China):
China promotes multilateralism but with a focus on reforming institutions like the UN to reflect "developing country" interests. Wang Yi highlights China's role in UN peacekeeping (e.g., sending troops to Mali) and climate diplomacy, framing it as a "responsible major country."
US/EU:
The US often acts unilaterally or through alliances (e.g., NATO), while the EU prioritizes rules-based multilateralism. Both advocate for liberal democratic norms, sometimes clashing with China’s vision of "non-Western" multilateralism.
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4. Economic Diplomacy: Win-Win vs. Conditional Cooperation
Wang Yi (China):
He stresses "win-win" economic partnerships, such as linking China’s urbanization with Europe’s recovery. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) exemplifies this, offering infrastructure loans without political strings attached (criticized by the West as "debt-trap diplomacy").
US/EU:
The US and EU tie economic cooperation to political conditions (e.g., labor standards, anti-corruption measures). The EU’s Global Gateway initiative explicitly counters BRI by emphasizing transparency.
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5. Handling Disputes: Dialogue vs. Coercion
Wang Yi (China):
Prefers bilateral negotiations and "quiet diplomacy." For territorial disputes, he advocates "peaceful resolution through talks," contrasting with Western public pressure tactics.
US/EU:
Often use public shaming, sanctions, or military alliances (e.g., US freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea).
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Key Differences Summarized
| Aspect | Wang Yi ( china) | US/ EU |
| core principle | sovereignty | values driven |
| non interference | intervention | |
| tone | assertive | confrontation (US) |
| but diplomatic | Normative (EU) | |
| global governance | reformist | status quo |
| pro-global south | liberal democratic pro | |
| economic tools | unconventional | conditional |
| win-win deals | partnership | |
| dispute solution | bilateral | multilateral pressure |
| dialogue | or sanctions | |
Conclusion
Wang Yi’s style reflects China’s broader strategy of "peaceful rise," combining assertiveness with a rejection of Western hegemony. Unlike the US’s adversarial posture or the EU’s normative pressure, his diplomacy prioritizes sovereignty, economic pragmatism, and incremental influence. However, his approach has drawn criticism for overlooking human rights concerns, as seen in clashes with the EU. For further details, refer to his speeches and analyses of US-China tensions.
