As China continues to open up to the world, President Xi Jinping has called for a stronger rule of law in foreign affairs, highlighting the significant “external risks and challenges” the nation faces. This development represents a significant shift in the country’s approach to international relations and speaks to the complexities of its growing position on the global stage. President Xi’s call comes at a critical time when the world is watching China’s rise as a global superpower. The country’s economic growth and increasing influence in international affairs have been met with both admiration and apprehension from different parts of the world. Therefore, the emphasis on the rule of law in foreign affairs is not only a response to external pressures but also an attempt to establish a clear framework for China’s international interactions. The Chinese President’s call for a stronger rule of law is a reflection of the recognition that, as China’s influence grows; it must ensure that its actions are in line with international laws and regulations. This approach could play a key role in shaping the global perception of China and its role in world affairs. By adhering to the rule of law, China can demonstrate its commitment to fairness, justice, and respect for international norms, potentially reducing tensions and fostering more productive relationships with other countries.

The “external risks and challenges” Xi Jinping refers to are multifaceted. They include geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, technological competition, and issues related to climate change and public health. In this context, the rule of law can serve as a guiding principle for China to navigate these complex and evolving challenges. It can provide a stable framework for addressing disputes, managing potential conflicts, and promoting cooperation. However, the call for a stronger rule of law in foreign affairs also raises key questions. Will the country’s approach to the rule of law in international relations reflect its domestic legal practices? Or will it take a different path that aligns more closely with international legal norms? The answers to these questions will be crucial in shaping China’s relationships with other countries and its overall position in the global order. Xi’s emphasis on the rule of law in foreign affairs also underscores the greater role that legal institutions and professionals could play in China’s foreign policy. It could lead to an increased focus on international law in education and training for diplomats, as well as a greater reliance on legal experts in the formulation and implementation of foreign policy. This could, in turn, lead to a more nuanced and legally sophisticated approach to international relations. However, actualizing this vision of stronger adherence to the rule of law in foreign affairs will require significant effort. It will involve not just changes in policy and practice, but also a cultural shift in the understanding and appreciation of the rule of law. This is a challenge that China, like many other countries, will need to confront as it seeks to redefine its role in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. President Xi Jinping’s call for a stronger rule of law in foreign affairs represents a significant development in China’s approach to international relations. It reflects the country’s recognition of the complexities of the global landscape and the need for a clear and stable framework to navigate these challenges. As China continues to open up to the world, the rule of law could play a vital role in shaping its relationships with other countries and its position in the global order.

By Roberto Casseli