Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China's commitment to multilateral cooperation during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Plus meeting in Tianjin on Monday, urging member states to defend the United Nations' central role in global governance.
In his address, Xi emphasized the need to counter unilateralism through coordinated action, stating: "We should uphold the vision of global governance featuring extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit." He called on the SCO – which recently expanded to include Iran and Belarus – to lead by example in implementing the Global Governance Initiative, a framework promoting inclusive international collaboration.
The Chinese leader highlighted the UN's "irreplaceable" position in addressing global challenges, from climate change to economic inequality. His remarks come as the SCO strengthens its economic and security partnerships across Eurasia, with combined GDP of member states exceeding $23 trillion.
Analysts suggest Xi's speech underscores China's growing diplomatic influence through regional platforms while advocating for reformed international institutions. The SCO now represents 40% of the world's population and 30% of global GDP following its recent expansion.
