When combined, `核心 (héxīn)` means “core” or “nucleus,” and `利益 (lìyì)` means “interests” or “benefits.” Together, 核心利益 (héxīn lìyì) literally means “core benefits” or “nucleus interests,” referring to the most vital and central interests of the nation.
The concept of `核心利益` is a relatively recent but profoundly important fixture in China's official political vocabulary, gaining prominence since the early 2000s. It represents a shift towards a more assertive and clearly defined foreign policy. While Western countries like the United States also have “vital national interests,” the Chinese concept of `核心利益` is distinct in its rigidity and explicitness. American “vital interests” can be a long and evolving list debated by politicians and academics. In contrast, China's `核心利益` is a concise, state-defined list of priorities presented as absolute and unchanging. These typically include: 1. State Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity: This is paramount and most famously includes Taiwan, which Beijing considers a renegade province. It also extends to claims in the South China Sea, and control over regions like Tibet and Xinjiang. 2. National Security and Political Stability: This primarily refers to upholding the socialist political system and the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC). 3. Sustainable Economic and Social Development: Ensuring the conditions for continued economic growth and social stability is seen as a core interest, essential for the legitimacy of the government. The term is deeply tied to modern Chinese nationalism and the historical narrative of the “Century of Humiliation” (百年国耻), a period of foreign invasion and subjugation. Protecting `核心利益` is thus framed as a solemn duty to ensure China is never weakened or divided by external forces again, achieving its goal of “national rejuvenation” (民族复兴).
`核心利益` is a term of high formality and seriousness. You will almost never hear it in casual, everyday conversation.