Chen Jimin explains the four principle aspects of China’s new approach to foreign policy, called “major-power diplomacy,” which entails agenda setting, strategy promotion, and flexibility.

Speaking at the recent Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs, Xi Jinping spelled out China’s new foreign-policy vision, which many have characterized as a diplomatic manifesto to secure the “Chinese dream”.

China must forge partnerships with strategic pivots, or nations with which it has stable relations, to extend its influence.

Recent proposals for China to adopt an ‘alignment policy’ are strengthening as the United States continues its rebalancing strategy and return to Asia. However, Ma Shikun argues China should not abandon its nonalignment stance points out how the policy has contributed to China’s successful gains in recent years.