China Warns US: Conflict Could Devastate the World, Urges Mutual Respect and Cooperation

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized at the Munich Security Conference that conflict between China and the US would have catastrophic global consequences. He reiterated China’s stance on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation as the foundation for bilateral relations. Wang stressed that China would defend its sovereignty and interests while advocating for international stability and cooperation.

China Warns US: Conflict Could Devastate the World, Urges Mutual Respect and Cooperation

At the 61st Munich Security Conference (MSC), Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of stable relations between China and the United States, stressing that any conflict between the two would have dire consequences for the world. Wang, who also serves as a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China, delivered a keynote speech on “China in the World,” underscoring China’s commitment to stability and consistency in its policy toward the US. He noted that China’s approach is anchored in three key principles put forth by President Xi Jinping: mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation.

Wang explained that the differing social systems of China and the US reflect the distinct choices of their respective peoples, making it unrealistic for either country to try to change or overthrow the other’s system. The principle of mutual respect is essential for interactions between the two countries, while peaceful coexistence is crucial, as conflict would not only harm them but have far-reaching global repercussions. Wang emphasized that both nations must work together for win-win cooperation, as global challenges necessitate collaboration. He pointed out that the international community expects China and the US to join forces, and that doing so is a shared international responsibility.

China, according to Wang, is eager to establish a stable, healthy, and sustainable bilateral relationship with the US based on these principles. However, he firmly stated that if the US continues to adopt a confrontational stance toward China, China would stand its ground. He made it clear that China would steadfastly defend its national sovereignty, dignity, and legitimate rights to development. This commitment, Wang argued, is also crucial for maintaining international fairness and upholding the basic norms of international relations.

Wang’s speech included a cultural reflection on China’s resilience and strength. He quoted a Chinese proverb, “As the Nature changes vigorously, a man of virtue should strive continuously to strengthen himself,” highlighting the determination and strength of the Chinese people. He also drew on another saying, which metaphorically likens strength to the wind caressing hills and the moon shining on a river. This, he suggested, encapsulates the character and perseverance of the Chinese nation. Wang expressed confidence in both the future of China-US relations and the world, asserting that the direction both countries should aim for is the one defined by the three principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation.

Chinese expert Lü Xiang from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences noted that Wang’s remarks reiterated China’s consistent approach to US relations and underscored the significance China places on this relationship. The shape of US-China relations under the new US administration remains uncertain, but Lü believed Wang’s speech would help promote better understanding of China’s position, laying the groundwork for future high-level interactions between the two nations.

At the MSC, US Vice President JD Vance also made waves by suggesting that the greatest threat to European security was not China or Russia, but internal challenges within Europe. Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, pointed out that the evolving US foreign policy could create an opportunity for both countries to explore areas of cooperation. He expressed hope that China and the US, during this period of adjustment, would identify more common interests and pursue dialogue.

Wang also addressed global issues such as multilateralism, the rule of international law, and the dangers of protectionism. He argued that protectionism offers no solution and that actions like arbitrary tariffs and decoupling deprive nations of opportunities. Instead, he advocated for an open and inclusive approach to international cooperation and economic globalization, which would benefit all parties. Wang also reiterated that China is committed to its modernization and will continue to promote its own development while contributing to global stability. He stressed that China will work with like-minded nations to uphold the principles of international relations enshrined in the UN Charter, advance the democratization of international relations, and foster a multipolar world with inclusive economic globalization.

In his interactions with Harvard University professor Graham Allison, Wang further outlined China’s foreign policy strategy, emphasizing China’s intent to manage its internal affairs effectively, shoulder its responsibilities as a major power, and collaborate with other nations to address global issues. Wang concluded by reaffirming China’s steadfast approach to its relations with the US, noting that China’s foreign policy remains consistent and focused on maintaining a healthy and stable bilateral relationship.