The Rule of Law in Foreign-Related Affairs in Building China into a Great Modern Country *

Abstract

The call to advance the rule of law in foreign-related affairs is an important component of China's strategic move to a great modern country. In modern times, Western countries have applied rule of law practices in their modernization, demonstrating the values of a sound rule of law system for national strength. In particular, the rule of law, extended beyond national borders, provides a crucial guarantee for a great modern country's sustained, stable, and healthy path, and is also a clear symbol of a country's soft power. As China is progressing to become a great modern country, there is a need to pay a particularly close attention to the rule of law, actively promoting the legalization of foreign-related work. China's stance on the rule of law in foreign-related affairs should include both a principle of defending its core interests and a principle of advocating shared values and of promoting mutually beneficial cooperation. In the context of this era, China's international law professional community should delve into appropriate models that can facilitate smooth progress on the path to modernization, further enhancing the rule of law in China and the successful emergence of a great modern country.