Guo Jiakun: Career and Diplomatic Role as MFA Spokesperson
Guo Jiakun is a seasoned diplomat who currently serves as a prominent voice for the People's Republic of China. With a background rooted in linguistics and extensive experience within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Guo has transitioned from specialized administrative roles to the high-profile position of official spokesperson, representing China's interests on the global stage.
Professional Background and Education
Guo Jiakun's academic foundation began at Nankai University in Tianjin, where he graduated in 2002. He earned a bachelor's degree in foreign languages, specializing in English, a skill set that would prove essential for his subsequent career in international diplomacy.
Following his graduation, he joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His career trajectory includes several key roles that provided him with a broad understanding of global governance and regional affairs:
- Third Secretary of the Permanent Mission of the People's Republic of China to the United Nations.
- Deputy Director of the Fourth Division of the MFA Department of African Affairs.
- Director of the MFA Policy Planning Department.
Appointment as MFA Spokesperson
On January 6, 2025, Guo Jiakun was appointed as the 35th spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He assumed his duties immediately, conducting his first regular press conference on the day of his appointment.
Diplomatic Stances and Key Issues
The US TikTok Ban and Digital Migration
In January 2025, amid a trend of American TikTok users migrating to the Chinese social media application RedNote, Guo addressed inquiries regarding censorship in China. He stated that the choice of platform is a "personal choice" and emphasized that the Chinese government supports "people-to-people exchanges."
Following an executive action by President Donald Trump to delay the TikTok ban by 75 days, Guo urged the United States to listen to the "voice of reason." He advocated for the U.S. to maintain an "open, fair, just and non-discriminatory business environment" for international companies.
Relations with the Philippines
By September 2025, Guo's role involved managing tensions with the Philippines. He criticized the Philippines for actions he described as "wrongful and provocative" regarding Taiwan, asserting that such moves undermine China's "core interests."
Guo specifically mentioned Philippine Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro and other officials, claiming they had "trampled on China's red line," particularly following a visit by a Taiwanese delegate to the Philippines in August. He warned that these actions could "backfire" and cautioned the Philippines against acting as "chess pieces" in regional power struggles, specifically referencing the country's military cooperation with the United States.
Key Facts
- Education: Bachelor's degree in English from Nankai University (2002).
- Current Role: 35th spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China.
- Appointment Date: January 6, 2025.
- Previous Experience: UN Permanent Mission, Department of African Affairs, and Policy Planning Department.
- Key Diplomatic Focus: US-China tech relations (TikTok/RedNote) and territorial/political disputes with the Philippines.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Degree | Bachelor's in Foreign Languages (English), Nankai University |
| MFA Sequence | 35th Spokesperson |
| Stance on TikTok | Advocated for a non-discriminatory business environment |
| Stance on Philippines | Warned against "provocative" actions regarding Taiwan |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Guo Jiakun become the MFA spokesperson?
Guo Jiakun was appointed as the 35th spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on January 6, 2025.
What is Guo Jiakun's educational background?
He graduated from Nankai University in Tianjin in 2002 with a bachelor's degree in foreign languages, concentrating in English.
How did Guo respond to the migration of US users to RedNote?
He stated that the choice of which platform to use is a personal choice and noted that the Chinese government encourages people-to-people exchanges.
What were Guo's warnings to the Philippines in 2025?
He warned that "wrongful and provocative" actions regarding Taiwan would backfire and cautioned the Philippines against being used as "chess pieces" in regional power struggles involving the United States.
What previous roles did Guo hold within the MFA?
He served as the third secretary of the Permanent Mission to the United Nations, deputy director of the Fourth Division of the Department of African Affairs, and director of the Policy Planning Department.