On October 18, the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) was held in Beijing, capital of China. A reporter from China Youth Daily and its website interviewed Aymeric Chauprade, member of the European Parliament and a geopolitical expert, to learn what was Europe’s concern on the 19th CPC National Congress.
Reporter: How do you view the significance of the 19th CPC National Congress on China’s stability and development?
Chauprade: In China’s modern history, the National Congress of the Communist Party of China has always been a very important meeting. It is down to the Party and the decisions made by the Party form China’s development strategy and facilitate modernization across the whole of China. To this extent, the National Congress, which takes place every five years, is very important. The guiding ideology put forward at the meeting will guide China’s internal affairs and diplomatic direction over the next five years. Like other experts and scholars from around the world, I will pay particular attention to this National Congress.
Reporter: What is your view on China’s diplomacy over the past five years under the leadership of President Xi and China’s role on the global stage?
Chauprade: China’s foreign policy is very important. China supports a multi-polar world and Xi Jinping fully upholds the concept of multi-polarization. China has played an important role in the international arena. Today, China is a major contributor to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force, reflecting China’s commitment to safeguarding world peace. China has also actively responded to the challenge of global climate change and attended the Paris 2015 UN Climate Change Conference. China is also working with other countries from around the world, including western countries, to fight terrorism.
Facing challenges beyond national interest and facing the challenge of globalization, President Xi has shown great foresight in allowing China to play such a significant role in the international arena. By supporting multi-polarization of the world, China will continue to play a pivotal role in the world as an engine for globalization.
Reporter: After the 19th CPC National Congress, how do you think a more open, more internationalized China will effect world peace, the world economy and international order?
Chauprade: One of China’s most important advantages is that it safeguards international order and respects international law, which plays an important role for China in maintaining its own international reputation. We are very much looking forward to China playing an active role in the various conflicts and crises, where it can play a balanced, mediating role in an increasingly turbulent world.
For example, on the Iranian nuclear issue, the international community is currently very concerned about the Iranian nuclear agreement reached in 2015. The EU supports the agreement and believes that Iran has complied with each commitment. As a result, we hope that China can support the EU’s position and help persuade the United States to not take tough measures against Iran and avoid adding fuel to the fire in a world that is already filled with crises.
The EU also attaches great importance and is looking forward to China’s involvement in the North Korea nuclear issue. China plays an important role in resolving the North Korea nuclear issue, otherwise the threat of war between the United States and North Korea might rise. A solution to the North Korea nuclear issue is in the interests of China and the region, and will help avoid any further militarization from the United States in the region. The EU is very respectful of the strong leadership of President Xi and is looking forward to China’s involvement handling a number of issues, including the North Korea nuclear issue.
