In a significant diplomatic meeting on Thursday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s unwavering support for the United Nations during discussions with Philemon Yang, President of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), in Beijing.
Philemon Yang, hailing from Cameroon, was sworn in as UNGA President at the closing of the 78th session in September and is on an official visit to China from Wednesday to Sunday. The meeting marks an important step in strengthening cooperation between China and the UN.
Welcoming Yang’s visit, Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the pivotal role of the UNGA as the most representative and comprehensive charter body of the UN. He highlighted its importance as a platform for equal consultation, solidarity, and cooperation among all countries.
“China has always been a supporter and contributor to the cause of the United Nations,” Wang Yi stated, noting China’s status as a founding member of the UN and a permanent member of the Security Council. He called on the UN to serve as a force for justice in safeguarding world peace and to play a leading role in addressing global hotspots.
Advocating for dialogue and consultation, Wang Yi urged the pursuit of win-win results over conflicts and zero-sum approaches. He expressed hope that the UN would stand firmly against unilateralism and hegemony, promoting multilateralism and cooperative international relations.
Wang Yi also underscored the importance of the UN in reforming global governance. He called on the organization to shoulder the historical responsibility of enhancing the representation and voice of the Global South, ensuring that development benefits more countries in need. “China is ready to work with the UN to keep the reform of global governance in the right direction and make unremitting efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind,” he affirmed.
Philemon Yang commended China’s rapid economic development and long-term social stability, acknowledging China’s commitment to multilateralism and the international system with the UN at its core. He highlighted China’s role as a stable and constructive force in international affairs, advocating for the resolution of disputes through dialogue and providing support to developing countries, including Cameroon.
“The UN will continue to adhere to the one-China principle,” Yang stated, expressing gratitude for China’s long-term and firm support to the organization. He conveyed his belief that China will continue to play an indispensable role in promoting sustainable development and cooperation in areas such as financial system reform, artificial intelligence, and youth exchanges.
During their meeting, the two leaders also exchanged views on issues such as reform of the Security Council, underscoring the need for enhanced cooperation to address global challenges.
