Beijing, February 9th—The members’ congress and the first meeting of the fourth council of the China NGO Network for International Exchanges (CNIE) was held here today. Xiao Jie, Vice Chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee and President of the CNIE, attended and delivered a speech. Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), addressed the meeting. Lu Kang, Vice-minister of the IDCPC, presided over the meeting. 

The meeting reviewed and summarized the work achievements and experience of the third council of the CNIE and made arrangements for the work of the fourth council. It deliberated and adopted matters concerning the leadership of the fourth council, council members, newly admitted group members, and the establishment of new specialized committees. 

Xiao said, under the leadership of the new council, the CNIE should uphold the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics in the New Era, especially Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, consciously align its work with the national development strategy for the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), stay true to its founding mission, seize the opportunities of the times, and better guide and support domestic non-governmental organizations in carrying out international exchanges and cooperation that are of high quality, strength and warmth. All non-governmental organizations should bear in mind the country’s most fundamental interests, focus efforts at the grassroots level, emphasize results-oriented approaches, deepen coordination, and jointly promote high-quality development of international people-to-people exchanges and cooperation. 

Liu said, under the new circumstances, strengthening international people-to-people exchanges and cooperation is more necessary and better positioned than ever before, and also faces more opportunities. The mission and role of social organizations in promoting mutual understanding between the Chinese people and people of other countries have become more prominent. The CNIE should uphold a strong sense of political responsibility and historical initiative, adhere to systematic thinking, problem orientation, and innovation while upholding fundamental principles. Social organizations should ensure the right direction, focus on priorities, pursue practical results, strengthen support mechanisms, enhance capacity building, and strive to achieve new progress and breakthroughs in international people-to-people exchanges and cooperation. 

Founded in October 2005, the CNIE is a Chinese social organization alliance dedicated to international exchanges and cooperation.