Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, addressed the general debate of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Saturday. In his speech, Wang Yi emphasized the importance of peaceful resolutions to global conflicts and underscored China\u0027s commitment to international cooperation.
Ukraine Crisis
Wang Yi warned against any expansion of the Ukraine crisis, urging all parties to avoid escalation and provocation. “The top priority is to commit to no expansion of the crisis, no escalation of the tension, and no provocation by any party,” he stated, calling for efforts to de-escalate the situation at an early date. He emphasized that China is committed to playing a constructive role by engaging in shuttle mediation and promoting peace talks.
Palestinian-Israeli Conflict
Addressing the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Wang Yi stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive ceasefire in the Middle East. He asserted that the fundamental solution lies in the two-state approach. “China consistently supports the just cause of the Palestinian people in restoring their legitimate national rights and backs Palestine\u0027s full UN membership,” he said.
Afghanistan\u0027s Future
On the situation in Afghanistan, Wang Yi highlighted the importance of helping the country achieve stable governance, effectively combat terrorism, improve people\u0027s livelihoods, and revive its economy. He expressed hope for a better future for the Afghan people through international support and cooperation.
Korean Peninsula Stability
Wang Yi stated that war must not break out again on the Korean Peninsula. He called for consistent efforts to de-escalate tensions, resolve issues through dialogue and consultation, and transition from an armistice to a peace mechanism to maintain peace and stability in the region.
China\u0027s Role in Global Governance
Highlighting China\u0027s active participation in global governance, Wang Yi noted that China has never stood idly by in the face of severe global challenges. Citing the China-proposed Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative, he said China has contributed its wisdom to solving various problems facing humanity and injected Chinese strength into improving global governance.
Taiwan Question
Regarding the Taiwan question, Wang Yi stressed that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China\u0027s territory, asserting that this is both historical fact and present reality. He referenced Resolution 2758, which was overwhelmingly adopted at the 26th session of the UNGA 53 years ago, stating that there is no gray area and no room for ambiguity on the one-China principle. Wang Yi asserted that China will achieve complete reunification and that Taiwan will return to the embrace of the motherland, adding that this is a historical trend that no one or force can stop.
Commitment to Peaceful Development
Emphasizing that Chinese culture values peace and that the Chinese nation has no tradition of external expansion, Wang Yi noted, “China is the only major country that has written peaceful development into its constitution, and the only country among the five nuclear-weapon states to pledge no-first-use of nuclear weapons.”
Collaborative Global Efforts
Wang Yi concluded by stating that China does not only care about its own development and is ready to develop hand in hand with all countries. He mentioned China\u0027s efforts to further expand high-standard opening up, grant visa-free entry to citizens of a growing number of countries, promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and accelerate support for Global South cooperation and Africa\u0027s peace and development.
Reference(s):
Highlights of Chinese FM Wang Yi's speech at UNGA general debate
cgtn.com
