Multilateralism On UN Chief’s Protection List

He commends China’s role and contribution

The United Nations SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres has told Xinhua he believes that the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need to strengthen multilateralism, while also expressing hope to continue to work closely with China to address the common challenges facing the world.

“Looking at today’s global landscape, it is clear that the common good is best served through more international co-operation, not less,” the UN chief said last Friday. “The UN’s 75th anniversary, now more than ever, reminds us that multilateralism, consensus and cooperation must be instrumental in maintaining and safeguarding the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter,” the secretarygeneral said.

Mr Guterres reiterated his stance on multilateralism under the current situation, noting it must be both “networked” and “inclusive.” “We need a networked multilateralism, in which the United Nations and its agencies, the international financial institutions, regional organizations and others work together more effectively with stronger institutional links,” he said. “And we need an inclusive multilateralism, drawing on the critical contributions of civil society, business, foundations, the research community, local authorities, cities and regional governments,” the secretary-general elaborated. Speaking about the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr Guterres said “the virus is the number one global security threat in our world today and we need international solidarity to defeat it.”

“We need to massively expand new and existing tools that can respond to new cases and provide vital treatment to suppress transmission and save lives,” he said.

The secretary-general spoke highly of China’s contribution to addressing global challenges and its success in poverty reduction. Calling it “a pillar of multilateralism,” the UN chief said China has been playing an increasingly bigger role in regional and world affairs, adding that the UN’s close cooperation with China also extends to peace and security issues around the globe, including in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

“The United Nations and China enjoy a high level of co-operation,” he said.

“I welcome China’s comprehensive position on a wide number of topics of common interest, ranging from climate change to peacekeeping, and sustainable development”