Neighborhood diplomacy conducive to regional peace and development

Since China is geographically and culturally connected with its neighboring countries, sharing mutual interests, it is committed to a foreign policy of good-neighborliness and friendship in its immediate vicinity. Guided by the philosophy that "close neighbors are better than distant relatives," China prioritizes its neighborhood diplomacy, adhering to the principles of "amity, sincerity, reciprocity, and inclusiveness" to promote peace, stability, development, and prosperity in the region and beyond.

China's diplomatic strategy is characterized by proactive engagement with neighboring countries through high-level visits and dialogues. Chinese leaders regularly meet with their counterparts from neighboring countries to build mutual understanding and trust. These interactions go beyond mere formalities, laying the groundwork for significant agreements that strengthen bilateral collaboration.

Trade and investment have become the backbone of China's ties with its neighbors. The Belt and Road Initiative exemplifies this, as it seeks to enhance connectivity and economic integration particularly across its neighboring countries. Through infrastructure investments and trade partnerships, China has facilitated economic growth in many neighboring countries, creating a win-win situation that fosters regional stability. The increase in trade volumes and investment flows is a testament to the success of these diplomatic efforts.

In recent years, trade between China and its neighboring countries has reached unprecedented levels, reflecting the deepening economic interdependence that benefits all parties involved.

Beyond economics, China recognizes the importance of cultural and educational exchanges in its neighborhood diplomacy, as it is beneficial to building lasting relationships. Initiatives such as the Confucius Institutes promote Chinese language and culture, fostering goodwill and understanding among neighboring nations. Scholarships and exchange programs for students and professionals further enhance people-to-people connectivity, creating a foundation of mutual respect and collaboration. Such exchanges have proven invaluable in dispelling stereotypes and building a sense of community among nations. As individuals from different backgrounds come together, they contribute to a broader understanding of each other's cultures, thereby fostering genuine relationships that are essential for maintaining peace and stability.

Moreover, China's neighborhood diplomacy is also anchored in multilateral cooperation mechanisms that emphasize openness and inclusiveness. Platforms such as the China-Central Asia Summit, the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation mechanism, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization provide frameworks for addressing common challenges and enhancing regional stability. These platforms allow for dialogue on security, economic development, and environmental issues, fostering a collaborative spirit among member states.

For instance, the SCO has become a critical forum for addressing security concerns in Central Asia, promoting counter-terrorism cooperation, and enhancing economic ties. Similarly, the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation mechanism has facilitated collaboration on sustainable development and resource management among countries sharing the Mekong River, highlighting China's commitment to addressing regional challenges collectively. It is also apparent in fostering deeper and more substantive China-Japan-ROK trilateral cooperation. By working together, these nations can bolster their collective influence and contribute to regional stability, showcasing that cooperation is more effective than rivalry.

China's approach to building partnerships with neighboring countries is rooted in the concept of a "community with a shared future for mankind." By establishing comprehensive strategic partnerships, China aims to create a framework where mutual benefits and common interests are prioritized. In recent years, neighboring countries like Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Indonesia, Thailand, Mongolia, and Malaysia have committed to establishing a bilateral community of shared future with China.

In addition to its diplomatic engagements, China's unilateral expansion of its openness to foreign investment and goods and the implementation of visa-free policies have further strengthened its ties with neighboring countries. By November 2024, China has decided to expand the list of visa-free countries to 38, including neighboring countries such as Singapore, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Kazakhstan, and Thailand. By simplifying visa processes and promoting trade liberalization, China has made it easier for businesses and individuals to connect, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange. Such initiatives not only benefit China but also create opportunities for its neighbors, reinforcing the idea that cooperation leads to mutual prosperity.

It is natural for territorial disputes to arise between neighboring countries. Upholding the principles of "peace is the most precious" and the "Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence", China advocates for resolving territorial and maritime disputes through diplomatic channels to promote regional peace, stability, and prosperity. For instance, China has made efforts to resolve territorial disputes in the South China Sea through diplomatic channels, advocating for dialogue while refraining from unilateral actions that could escalate tensions.

Additionally, China has engaged in dialogue with India over the border dispute, underscoring its commitment to peaceful coexistence despite historical tensions, and it has eventually resulted in the smooth resolution of the dispute. Through these efforts, China aims to demonstrate its willingness to work collaboratively with its neighbors and foster a sense of regional stability.

In a word, neighborhood diplomacy holds a critically important position in China's foreign relations. Through a combination of high-level bilateral interactions, economic collaborations, cultural and educational exchanges, and multilateral cooperation mechanisms, China is not only enhancing its relationships with neighboring countries but also contributing significantly to regional and global stability.

The author is a professor at the Foreign Studies College and director of the Center for Global Governance and Law, Xiamen University of Technology.

The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.

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