United Kingdom and Ireland Visits
From February 12 to 17, 2025, Wang Yi visited the United Kingdom and Ireland. In London, he co-chaired the 10th China-U.K. Strategic Dialogue with Foreign Secretary David Lammy, marking the resumption of formal talks after nearly seven years. Discussions encompassed economic relations, human rights, China’s stance on the Ukraine conflict, and the situation in Hong Kong. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer briefly joined the meeting, underscoring its significance in cautiously resetting bilateral ties.
In Dublin, Wang Yi met with Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris to commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations. The leaders deliberated on enhancing trade and investment, with Harris urging China to leverage its influence to help end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing the necessity of a peaceful solution respecting Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Munich Security Conference
Attending the 61st Munich Security Conference in Germany from February 14 to 16, Wang Yi engaged with global leaders to discuss international security challenges. He met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and other EU officials, emphasizing the need for stronger cooperation with Germany and the EU in free trade and multilateralism. Discussions also covered the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where China and Europe shared the goal of seeking a peaceful resolution.
United Nations Security Council High-Level Event
On February 18, as the rotating President of the U.N. Security Council for February, China held a high-level event themed “Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance.” Wang Yi chaired the session in New York, advocating for true multilateralism and enhanced global governance to address contemporary challenges.
G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
Concluding his tour, Wang Yi attended the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, from February 20 to 21. The summit addressed global economic recovery, sustainable development, and geopolitical tensions. The meeting faced challenges amid geopolitical tensions, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio absent due to US-South Africa tensions.
Wang Yi’s diplomatic engagements reflect China’s commitment to active participation in global affairs, fostering dialogue, and promoting multilateralism to address complex international issues.
