A senior Chinese diplomat emphasizes Türkiye’s unique role as a cultural bridge between East and West, underlining historic ties and the importance of Global South cooperation.
Liang Jianjun, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Asian Affairs at China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, addressed foreign journalists at a conference in Beijing titled “The Philosophy and Practice of China’s Neighborhood Diplomacy in the New Era.”
Liang highlighted China’s commitment to building equitable partnerships, particularly with developing countries of the Global South. Emphasizing the importance of initiatives like the Belt and Road, he stated:
“All countries—regardless of their size—deserve equal treatment.”
Responding to a question about the future of Türkiye-China relations, Liang remarked:
“I have a special interest in Türkiye – because it lies at the intersection of Eastern and Western civilizations.”
🏺 “China Has Always Brought Friendship — Not Invasion”
Liang used historical references to describe the longstanding ties between Türkiye and China:
“One of my colleagues once visited the Turkish History Museum. He noted the contrast between the displays: swords, shields, and armor in the West; ceramics, tiles, tea, and silk in the East.”
Liang also referenced Admiral Zheng He, the legendary Chinese explorer who led the world’s largest fleet of his time and visited Türkiye more than 600 years ago:
“Throughout our exchanges, China never invaded or harmed others. What we brought was friendship, communication, trade, and mutual understanding.”
🌍 “The Global South’s Voice Must Be Heard”
Drawing attention to cultural similarities, Liang cited proverbs:
“Our Turkish friends say, ‘Two candles shine brighter together.’ In Chinese, we say, ‘When everyone adds firewood, the flames rise.’”
He stressed the need for stronger international communication and the inclusion of Global South nations in shaping global development:
“Our progress is not a gift from anyone. It is the result of our own hard work. We fully deserve our right to development.”
Keywords: Türkiye-China relations, Chinese diplomat Liang Jianjun, Belt and Road Initiative, Zheng He, Global South cooperation, Chinese diplomacy, East-West relations, China Türkiye friendship
Description: Chinese diplomat Liang Jianjun highlights Türkiye’s cultural significance and historic connections with China, calling for stronger ties and amplifying the voice of the Global South through fair diplomacy.
