Chinese diplomats will continue ‘struggle’ to protect national sovereignty, says foreign vice-minister

Speaking at party congress, Ma Zhaoxu says there is a ‘rock solid’ determination safeguard the country’s ‘fundamental interests’

Ma was speaking days after the US said it saw China as a competitor that has the intent and means to reshape the international order

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Ma Zhaoxu was speaking during the Communist Party congress. Photo: AP

Published: 8:30pm, 20 Oct 2022Updated: 9:11pm, 20 Oct 2022

China’s diplomats will maintain the “spirit of struggle” to defend the country’s sovereignty and keep its development on the right track, the country’s vice-minister for foreign affairs has said.

Ma Zhaoxu cited the country’s response to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in August – including suspending cooperation in the fight against climate change – as an example of how Beijing opposes zero sum games and pressure tactics.

“Our determination to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity and safeguard the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation is unshakeable and rock-solid,” Ma said.

“China’s diplomacy will continue to carry forward the spirit of struggle, improve the ability to fight, and always stand at the forefront of safeguarding national interests and national dignity”.

Ma was speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the ongoing Communist Party national congress. A new leadership team will be announced following the conclusion of the once-every-five-year event on Saturday.