Today, I had the honor of speaking at the “Coffee and Tea” Forum, organized by the Chinese Embassy in Sarajevo, dedicated to the theme “The Concept and Practice of Major-Country Diplomacy with Chinese Characteristics.”
The forum opened with introductory remarks by H.E. Li Fan, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Bosnia and Herzegovina, followed by contributions from distinguished participants, including Davor Vuletić, Advisor for Foreign Policy to the Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Professor Emir Hadžikadunić, Professor of International Relations and former Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Igor Soldo, President of the Supervisory Board of the Belt and Road Center; Miroslav Živanović, Head of the Rector’s Office at the University of Sarajevo; and other respected colleagues and experts. The discussion was conducted under the Chatham House Rule, encouraging open and constructive exchange of views.
In my presentation, I explored the concept and practice of major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics, viewing it as a combination of strategic vision, long-term stability, and carefully managed foreign policy in contemporary international relations. I particularly emphasized the relationship between diplomatic theory and practice, as well as the relevance of such approaches for smaller states, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, in navigating today’s complex geopolitical environment. China demonstrates that diplomacy is built strategically, and with a long-term vision, carefully balancing relations with other states.
At the same time, diplomacy is not just reactive but is about being proactive. Instead of waiting for international events to happen, a state should create tools, networks, and platforms that allow it to be fully involved in events. The theory allows to maximize own capacities and strategic actions. Finally, the key lesson to be taken from the Chinese experience: Diplomacy needs to be deliberate, grounded in theory, and designed with long-term objectives.
The forum provided an excellent platform for dialogue and reflection on the evolving dynamics of global diplomacy and the opportunities.
