Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered a landmark address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly session in New York, emphasizing multilateral cooperation and China’s commitment to addressing global challenges. Speaking on Friday, Li outlined four pillars for international collaboration amid what he called “a new period of turbulence and transformation.”
Reflections on History, Vision for Tomorrow
Marking the 80th anniversary of the UN’s founding, Li highlighted lessons from post-World War II cooperation: “Solidarity lifts everyone up, while division drags all down.” He warned against resurgent unilateralism and urged adherence to the UN Charter’s principles, stating that “fairness and justice are the most important values pursued by the international community.”
Four-Point Action Plan
1. Peace and Shared Security: China pledged to expand its role in conflict mediation, citing its involvement in Ukraine and Palestinian-Israeli peace talks. The nation remains the top contributor of peacekeepers among UN Security Council permanent members.
2. Economic Revitalization: Li criticized protectionist policies, noting China’s 30% contribution to global growth over recent years. He emphasized Belt and Road cooperation with 150+ countries and plans to accelerate domestic innovation in AI and renewable energy.
3. Cultural Dialogue: Rejecting “civilizational superiority” narratives, China announced 50 cultural development programs for Global South nations and 200 cross-cultural training initiatives.
4. Climate and Tech Governance: Following President Xi Jinping’s updated climate commitments, Li revealed China will donate Chang’e-6 lunar soil samples to the UN while advocating for a World AI Cooperation Organization.
Institutional Reforms and Funding
China committed $10 million to establish a Global South-South Development Facility and a Shanghai-based sustainable development center with the UNDP. Li reiterated support for UN reforms prioritizing developing nations’ representation.
The speech concluded with a call to “make our world a more harmonious and beautiful place” through implementation of China’s Global Development, Security, Civilization, and Governance Initiatives.
