‌Grand Strategic Perspective: Historical Review of the International Studies Task Force and Its Expert Panels Established During International Crises

From March 5 to October 18, 1969, commissioned by Chairman Mao Zedong, Marshals Chen Yi, Ye Jianying, Xu Xiangqian, and Nie Rongzhen formed the "International Studies Task Force" to analyze global geopolitics through closed-door symposiums and offer strategic recommendations to the Central Committee on critical international issues. Concurrently, Premier Zhou Enlai designated specialists deeply versed in international affairs—including Xiong Xianghui and Yao Guang—as ‌expert panel members‌ of the Task Force. They attended the symposiums to provide analytical support and operational assistance to the marshals

Premier Zhou Enlai made thoughtful and detailed arrangements for implementing Chairman Mao's instructions. Addressing senior comrades including Chen Yi regarding the study of the international situation, he stated: "As marshals, you all possess strategic vision and can help the Chairman grasp strategic developments, providing reference for him." While guiding the work of this group, Premier Zhou Enlai emphasized: ‌"Chairman Mao's consistent principle is that subjective cognition must conform to objective reality. As objective reality continuously develops and changes, subjective cognition should likewise evolve. Timely revisions—partial or even comprehensive—must be made to original views and conclusions. Therefore, you should not be constrained by preconceptions."

The "International Issues Study Group" convened twenty-three consecutive meetings to analyze the prevailing international landscape, with a particular focus on shifts in global strategic dynamics (especially the "Great Triangle" relations) and their implications for China's foreign policy. These sessions conducted in-depth examinations of strategic issues, including changes in U.S. policy toward China following President Nixon's inauguration. Subsequently, the group submitted two pivotal reports—Preliminary Assessment of the War Situation and Perspectives on the Current Situation—to Chairman Mao Zedong and Premier Zhou Enlai. After synthesizing expert analyses and meticulously evaluating the international strategic environment, the four marshals presented research reports to the Central Committee. Their work furnished scientifically grounded arguments and precise assessments that critically informed Chairman Mao and the Party Central Committee's landmark decision to recalibrate foreign strategy and normalize Sino-U.S. relations.