China’s Foreign Policy: Key Decision-Makers and Structures

Why in the News?

India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met top Chinese foreign policy officials, highlighting China’s party-state governance model where the CPC dominates decision-making. The role of the Foreign Affairs Commission, IDCPC, and MFA in shaping China’s diplomacy is crucial.

China’s Foreign Policy: Key Decision-Makers and Structures

Key Decision-Making Bodies:

  • Politburo Standing Committee (PBSC) sets overall foreign policy direction.
  • CPC Central Committee’s Foreign Affairs Commission (FAC) manages policy coordination and decision-making.
  • FAC is chaired by President Xi Jinping, with Li Qiang as deputy head and Wang Yi as office head.
  • FAC Office handles agenda setting, research, and recommendations for top leaders.

Role of the International Liaison Department (IDCPC)

  • The IDCPC is the CPC’s main diplomatic arm, led by Liu Jianchao.
  • It conducts party-to-party diplomacy across 150+ countries, enhancing CPC’s international legitimacy.
  • The department has regional bureaus for political research and party relations.
  • It plays a major role in South Asian diplomacy, including interactions with Indian political parties.
  • The United Front Work Department (UFWD) manages relations with overseas Chinese, Hong Kong, and Taiwan affairs.

The Role of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA):

  • MFA is a state body under the State Council, responsible for implementing foreign policy.
  • The Foreign Minister’s influence has fluctuated, but Xi Jinping has increased its stature.
  • MFA serves as China’s official diplomatic interface and handles policy communication through press statements.
  • Other organizations like National Security Commission and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference also play diplomatic roles.