Chinese President Xi Jinping outlined the guiding principles for China's diplomatic work during a foreign affairs conference on Saturday. He said China's foreign policy should be committed to national rejuvenation and the creation of a community with a shared future, and stressed that China should help reform and improve the global governance system, and establish a better network between international partners. 

President Xi pointed out that foreign affairs should be based around three different aspects.

First, gain an in-depth understanding of history in order to understand present global trends. Xi said we should not only look at the current international situation, but also look back on the past, sum up the laws of history, look to the future, and grasp the general trend of historical progress. 

Second, focus on diplomatic efforts while not getting lost amid changes in the overall situation. Xi said apart from seeing phenomena and details, we should also seize the essence of the situation and grasp the major parts of the principal contradictions.

Third, be aware of what role China is playing in global affairs. Xi pointed out that we should calmly analyze various international phenomena, and consider China's relations with the world. He emphasized the importance of figuring out China's status and role in the evolution of the structure of the world, and to scientifically formulate foreign policies.

President Xi said it is important to grasp the evolving nature of the world as it has undergone profound changes. Although the world is moving toward multi-polarity, there are some changing relations between major powers.

He noted that the global economy is witnessing changes despite economic globalization still being the overall trend. As the world has enjoyed peaceful development, it is also threatened by security challenges. Tensions and cooperation co-exist between different cultures.

Xi said China should continue to push for win-win cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. He added that Beijing should maintain stable relations with major powers, deepen friendships with its neighbors and unite with developing countries.

Xi said now is the best time for China's diplomacy. He called for China to learn from the rest of the world while safeguarding its national interests.