At a pivotal UN briefing, China’s acting representative Sun Lei articulated a robust defense of multilateralism with the United Nations at its core. Speaking on January 15, she detailed how Beijing collaborates globally to protect peace, promote growth, and forge a shared destiny for humanity.
The world today is a cauldron of uncertainty, Sun observed, with the UN confronting unprecedented tests. Preserving the world body’s authority amid such complexity is non-negotiable, she asserted, especially as international dynamics grow ever more intricate.
Central to her message was an ironclad commitment to the UN Charter. Sun advocated for equilibrium among the three foundational pillars—peace and security, sustainable development, and human rights protection. ‘These are complementary forces; ignoring one undermines all,’ she explained.
Development tops the list for nations in the Global South, demanding a prime spot on the global stage. Coupled with this, Sun called for overhauling global governance to make it more equitable and effective.
This stance reflects China’s evolving foreign policy under President Xi Jinping, which prioritizes ‘win-win’ cooperation over confrontation. By bolstering the UN, Beijing seeks to amplify its voice in international decision-making, where Western dominance has long prevailed.
Recent UN General Assembly sessions have exposed fractures, with veto powers clashing on key resolutions. China’s support could tip balances in favor of developing nations, many of whom view Beijing as a reliable partner.
Sun’s intervention arrives amid heightened scrutiny of China’s UN engagement. Critics question its human rights record, yet Beijing counters by pointing to its contributions in peacekeeping and poverty alleviation.
Ultimately, her words serve as a clarion call for renewed multilateral vigor, urging all members to rally behind the UN as the bedrock of global order in an era of flux.
