Third, China resolutely defended state sovereignty and territorial integrity, and took a big step forward toward national reunification.

On July 1, 1997, the Chinese government resumed sovereignty over Hong Kong. Now, all preparatory work for the return of Macao has been completed. We are fully confident of Macao's stable transition and a smooth hand-over of power.

We have firmly abided by the principles of "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems" and battled against the separatist activities of creating "two Chinas" and "one China, one Taiwan." Over the past six years, we have stopped any attempts by the Taiwanese authorities to "return to the United Nations," thereby defending national independence, sovereignty and dignity.

Q: Please say something about the current international situation.

A: At present, the international situation is experiencing dramatic and profound changes. The most striking is the accelerated multi-polarization of the world and economic globalization.

The multi-polarization of the world is the natural result of the end of the Cold War, the relaxation of the international situation and growth of world peace forces, and reflects the profound changes of international relations and the progress of the world. To meet this development trend, all countries, especially the big powers, are aiming for comprehensive national power in the next century. They have realigned mutual relations and strengthened coordination and cooperation. On the whole this has contributed to the weakening of hegemonism and power politics. It is also contributing to the relaxation and stability of the international situation.

The development of economic globalization has promoted the flow of commodities, capital, technology, management and talented persons in a wider field. Economic ties between countries have become closer. At the same time, science and technology mainly represented by information technology is being renewed daily. High and new technologies are being developed and applied to production at a faster rate, becoming a major force of economic growth. The economic development of each country is facing unprecedented opportunities and severe challenges. Only when we conform to the trends of our time and grasp opportunities, can we avoid defeat.

Q: What challenges does China's diplomacy face in the next period?

A: The general international situation is becoming more relaxed. The major topics of concern are still the guarantee of world peace and the promotion of common development. However, the current world remains full of contradictions. Conflicts break out now and then because of territorial quarrels, nationality contradictions and religious disputes. Hegemonism and power politics still exist and the world is not stable.

The Asian financial crisis has lasted for over a year, with its influence sweeping across the globe. Economic development in some countries was severely held back, which has in turn led to political and social turbulence. China's diplomacy faces a new challenge about how to abide by the principle of self-independence, enforce the risk-keeping system and maintain state economic security.

Q: With the improvement of China's comprehensive national power, China has strengthened its role and influence in the world. As a socialist developing country, what are the major characteristics of China's diplomacy?

A: The most striking feature is self-independence. It has always been the top priority of China's diplomacy to defend national sovereignty and security. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China will continue to play its unique constructive role in important international affairs involving peace and development. China will stand firmly with all developing countries. Through mutual support and close coordination, they will work together to guarantee their own legal rights and interests. With the mutual effort of China and all other countries, a prosperous, cooperative and peaceful world will be brought into the 21st century.

(No.  52, 1998)