Wang Yi says “high fences and small yards” cannot impede tech progress in China

Wang Yi says “high fences and small yards” cannot impede tech progress in China and that any such efforts will only end up in self isolation.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated on Friday that restrictive policies such as “high fences and small yards” cannot stifle innovation, and efforts to decouple or disrupt supply chains will only result in self-isolation.

Speaking at a press conference during the annual session of China’s national legislature, Wang emphasized that science and technology should not be used as barriers but should instead serve as a shared resource that benefits all of humanity.

Addressing concerns over U.S. technological restrictions on China, Wang asserted that blockades only lead to breakthroughs, and suppression fuels further innovation. Despite ongoing external pressures in areas such as space exploration and semiconductor development, China’s journey toward becoming a technological powerhouse continues to expand.

Drawing from Chinese mythology, Wang referenced the legend of Nezha, a figure known for resisting oppression, to illustrate China’s resilience in advancing its scientific and technological capabilities despite external challenges.

Wang highlighted China’s recent achievements in science and technology, including the Shenzhou crewed space missions, the Chang’e lunar exploration program, 5G, quantum computing, and DeepSeek.

To promote global development, Wang noted that China has actively implemented President Xi Jinping’s Global AI Governance Initiative and introduced the AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All.

China has also collaborated with Brazil, South Africa, and the African Union to propose the Initiative on International Cooperation in Open Science, advocating for increased technological capacity-building in the Global South to ensure no country is left behind.

Wang concluded by reaffirming China’s commitment to sharing its technological advancements with the world, fostering collaboration in scientific exploration, and working together to uncover the mysteries of space and the ocean.