标签： Asia

China has emphatically declared that no nation possesses the authority to dominate international affairs or determine the destinies of other countries. The statement came from Lou Qinjian, spokesperson for the fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress, during a press conference preceding the annual legislative gathering.

Addressing growing international concerns about the erosion of global governance systems and the diminishing role of the United Nations, Lou articulated China’s firm position against unilateralism and the increasing use of force in international relations. The spokesman specifically referenced the situation in Iran, emphasizing that the nation’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity must be fully respected.

China urgently called for the immediate cessation of military operations against Iran, advocating instead for diplomatic dialogue and negotiations to prevent further escalation of tensions in the Middle East. Lou affirmed China’s commitment to functioning as a responsible global power in facilitating peaceful resolutions.

The spokesperson outlined China’s Global Governance Initiative, which champions sovereign equality, adherence to international rule of law, genuine multilateralism, people-centered approaches, and concrete actions. This framework represents China’s proposed solution for creating a more just and equitable global governance system.

As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a major world power, China pledged to collaborate with all nations to uphold the authority and status of the United Nations, maintain the principles of the UN Charter, practice authentic multilateralism, and contribute significantly to global governance reform efforts aimed at building a shared future for humanity.

Beijing has issued a firm declaration against external involvement in its domestic matters, emphasizing its unwavering commitment to protect national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The statement came from National People’s Congress spokesman Lou Qinjian during a Wednesday press conference preceding the fourth session of the 14th NPC.

Lou articulated that protecting China’s sovereign rights, security, and development interests constitutes the fundamental principle guiding the nation’s foreign engagements. His comments addressed inquiries regarding China’s diplomatic strategy toward neighboring nations amid evolving regional dynamics and specific challenges in Sino-Japanese relations.

Regarding Taiwan, Lou characterized the matter as exclusively China’s internal affair, representing a core national interest. He explicitly condemned recent statements by Japanese leadership concerning Taiwan, labeling them as inappropriate and counterproductive to bilateral relations.

The spokesman emphasized China’s enduring diplomatic priority toward neighboring countries, noting their geographical permanence as adjacent nations. He detailed China’s dedication to fostering regional peace, stability, and mutual prosperity through enhanced strategic cooperation and multifaceted exchanges, facilitated by head-of-state diplomatic leadership.

Lou further confirmed the NPC’s intention to strengthen legislative cooperation with neighboring nations through both bilateral and multilateral frameworks. This collaborative approach aims to support China’s modernization objectives while promoting synergistic development across the region.

British authorities have detained three individuals, including the partner of a sitting Labour MP, on allegations of espionage activities benefiting China. The suspects, aged 39, 43 and 68, were apprehended in coordinated operations across London and Wales under the National Security Act of 2023.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrests were conducted by counter-terrorism units investigating suspected foreign intelligence operations. While emphasizing there was no “imminent or direct threat to the public,” authorities maintained all three individuals remain in custody pending further investigation.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis addressed Parliament following the operations, declaring the UK would not compromise national security for economic considerations. “This government stands resolute in our resolve to counter foreign interference activity targeting the UK from any state actor,” Jarvis stated, warning of “severe consequences” should Chinese interference in UK sovereign affairs be substantiated.

The investigation involved simultaneous searches at multiple locations in London, East Kilbride and Cardiff. Suspects face charges under Section 3 of the National Security Act, which criminalizes providing material assistance to foreign intelligence services operating against UK interests.

Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, noted a “significant increase” in national security cases in recent years, emphasizing ongoing efforts to “disrupt malign activity where we suspect it.

The arrests occur amidst delicate diplomatic relations, following Sir Keir Starmer’s recent Beijing visit and government efforts to cautiously reset UK-China economic ties. Jarvis acknowledged the complexity, stating it would be “naive” to suggest the UK shouldn’t maintain “a functional working relationship with China.”

Opposition response came from shadow cabinet office minister Alex Burghart, who warned unless the UK stands firm against such threats, the country “will continue to be treated with disdain.” Burghart referenced previous collapsed spy cases involving China and concerns over Beijing’s newly approved mega-embassy in central London, which opponents fear could serve as an espionage base.

British officials have formally notified Chinese counterparts in both London and Beijing regarding the allegations.

Beijing prepares to host the annual conclave of China’s paramount legislative authority, the National People’s Congress (NPC), commencing March 5th through March 12th. Official spokesperson Lou Qinjian confirmed the schedule during Wednesday’s press briefing, outlining an ambitious agenda for the fourth session of the 14th NPC.

The eight-day parliamentary gathering will prioritize deliberation of three foundational legislative drafts: a comprehensive environmental code, legislation promoting ethnic unity and progress, and a framework law governing national development planning. The most anticipated discussion centers on formulating China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), the blueprint guiding national economic and social development strategies.

Beyond these landmark items, the assembly will conduct mandatory reviews of annual work reports from key government branches including the State Council, NPC Standing Committee, Supreme People’s Court, and Supreme People’s Procuratorate. Legislators will examine implementation reports for the 2025 economic plan alongside draft proposals for 2026 national development and budgetary frameworks covering both central and local administrations.

The session will further address the NPC Standing Committee’s report on legislative overhaul progress and proposed handling of existing laws. To enhance transparency, three thematic press conferences will illuminate economic policies, public welfare initiatives, and foreign affairs perspectives. Ministers will elaborate on sectoral advancements while NPC deputies share insights from their governance experiences.