2.8 International participation

Question 1: How does China strengthen its relationships with other countries through its participation in international affairs?

Promoting Mutual Benefit and Win-Win Outcomes: China actively participates in international affairs, increasing mutual understanding through cooperation in various areas, which helps transform disputes into win-win situations. For example, in recent years, China has actively promoted the "Belt and Road Initiative," aiming to enhance interaction between countries and regions through economic and trade exchanges, infrastructure development, and cultural exchanges, thereby developing mutually beneficial and trusting relationships. Additionally, China has established multiple permanent communication mechanisms and platforms to provide opportunities for leaders and senior government officials from various countries to engage, enhance understanding, strengthen relationships, or resolve differences.

Shaping a Positive National Image: As a responsible developing country, China primarily undertakes corresponding responsibilities and obligations to promote world peace and development. In recent years, China has actively "gone out" through increasingly large-scale economic and trade investments, humanitarian aid, and foreign development assistance projects, which fully demonstrate the responsibilities of a major power. This helps shape a positive national image, thereby strengthening relations with countries around the world.

Question 2: "China's participation in international affairs can maintain an environment conducive to its national development." Please provide reasoning to support this statement.

Ensuring National and Regional Security: By building the "Belt and Road" transportation network, China mitigates trade and logistics risks in specific bottleneck areas, ensuring the security of energy transportation. For example, through the coherent China-Europe Railway Express, goods are exported to Europe and imported from Europe, reducing reliance on maritime transport through the Malacca Strait in Southeast Asia. Additionally, China strengthens cooperation with neighboring regions by participating in regional international organizations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and engaging in joint military exercises to prevent terrorism.

Creating a Sustainable Development Environment: China actively assumes international obligations to protect the Earth's environment by signing international agreements such as the Paris Agreement and the Convention on Biological Diversity, committing to reduce carbon emissions and protect endangered species. Furthermore, through the "Belt and Road" initiative, China exports low-carbon technologies and supports developing countries in addressing climate change via the "China Climate Change South-South Cooperation Fund," demonstrating its responsibilities as a major power and creating an environment favorable for sustainable national development.

Question 3： What is the significance of China's active promotion of international cultural exchanges for the country?

Reducing Misunderstandings and Conflicts: The increasing frequency of exchanges between traditional and popular cultures allows people from China and abroad to have more opportunities to engage with and understand each other's cultures. This helps bridge gaps and promotes world peace and stability. For example, the Beijing International Book Fair, established in 1986, is a large international publishing exchange event that covers industries such as books, digital media, and animation. Additionally, the China Tourism and Culture Week, held multiple times in the UK, helps promote Chinese culture to the outside world.

Question 4：Identify and explain one benefit of China's participation in international affairs for overall national development.

Promoting Economic and Trade Cooperation: China’s promotion of the Belt and Road Initiative and various forms of foreign development assistance involves numerous transportation infrastructure projects, making logistics more convenient for countries. This helps facilitate trade between nations and their trading partners, driving economic development. By actively encouraging bilateral investment, Chinese enterprises can expand abroad while foreign companies are welcomed to enter China. Additionally, supporting the World Trade Organization and promoting free trade agreements contribute to maintaining a favorable business environment and countering trade protectionism.

Enhancing International Status and Influence: China's involvement in international affairs and the establishment of cooperative relationships with other countries strengthen its position and influence in the international community. China is not only a member of most major international organizations but also holds significant positions within them. Through organizing international organizations, hosting summits and forums, and promoting the Belt and Road Initiative, China has increased its influence in areas such as agenda-setting, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange.