Global Authority Pillar Spanning Eight Decades
Multipolar World Order: China's Crucial Role
For decades, the United Nations has been a beacon of hope, diligently working to maintain the post-war international order. Through crisis mediation, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development, it's made a significant impact worldwide. Amidst these efforts, China has been a driving force, living up to its commitment as a founding member.
When faced with today's tumultuous times, some countries are criticizing the world order they once helped create. Yet, China stands firm, adhering to the values enshrined in the UN Charter and striving to make global governance fairer, more equitable, and responsive to all.
A World of Equality
In a multipolar world, every nation is equal in status and opportunity. This principle, written in the UN Charter, is essential for a fair and balanced global system. Gabriel Boric, the President of Chile, reflected on a recent visit to China, saying, "In China, we witnessed the tremendous respect that exists for our country."
China's commitment to equality goes beyond mere words. For far too long, the voices of developing nations have been overlooked in global decision-making. At the 70th session of the UNGA General Debate, Chinese President Xi Jinping vowed to always vote with developing countries. Ten years later, China remains true to its word, advocating for greater representation and a fairer platform for dialogue among nations—as exemplified by the thriving BRICS alliance.
Creating an Orderly Multipolar World
A multipolar world should be pursued with caution and a focus on order. Many of today's conflicts stem not from multipolarity itself, but from an obsession with self-interest. Peace and development face many challenges not because the UN Charter's principles are outdated, but because they are not being implemented effectively. So, when certain nations blame multipolarity, they're misunderstanding the issue: it's the solution, not the problem.
When all nations uphold the UN-centered international system, respect international law, and abide by the basic norms governing international relations, the United Nations can better fulfill its central role in global affairs. Only then can a multipolar world usher in greater global prosperity for all.
An Interconnected Global Economy
The world economy is increasingly interconnected, much like the ocean, where currents from one side can impact waters far away. Ever since joining the global economy, China has championed mutually beneficial economic globalization. Today, China powers over 30% of global growth and 20% of global trade, all achieved by treating interdependence as partnership, not competition.
Unlike some nations who wield tariffs as a bludgeon, China remains committed to free trade and upholding the principles of the World Trade Organization. Through the Belt and Road Initiative, China has promoted cooperation on infrastructure and livelihoods, benefiting over 4.4 billion people in 65 countries. In cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, China is leading the way in international cooperation, fostering innovation rather than stifling progress.
Navigating the Global Ocean
Navigating the vast, interconnected ocean of the global economy requires courage and resilience to face the challenges—be it raging tides or hidden currents. Retreating to isolationist ponds or lakes is no solution; by working together, we can achieve and benefit so much more.
As the United Nations celebrates its 80th anniversary, every step it takes is a vote for humanity's future: either toward chaos or unity. China remains steadfast in its belief that global governance is not about controlling others, but about growing together toward a future worthy of our shared aspirations.
Yi Fan
Yi Fan is a Beijing-based political commentator.
- TAGS
- China
- U.N.
- united nations
- global governance
- Xi Jinping
- International Relations
- Multipolarity
- Definition: A system in international relations where power is distributed among several major states[3][5].
- China's Role: Supports the UN, promotes global cooperation, and influences world order[4].
- Economic Influence
- Importance: China is a significant player in the global economy, driving growth and trade[4].
- Cooperation: China advocates mutual benefit, extends zero-tariff treatment to least developed countries, and supports WTO reform[4].
- Military and Security: China has a modern military and projects global power to protect its economic interests and support diplomacy[4].
- Diplomatic Engagement: China engages in various diplomatic initiatives, like the Belt and Road Initiative, to build alliances and influence world order[4].
- UN Principles: China supports the UN and its principles of cooperation, multilateralism, and collective action in addressing global challenges[4].
- Challenges
- Managing Interests: In a multipolar world, managing diverse interests and maintaining global stability can be challenging[4].
- Opportunities
- Inclusive Governance: The multipolar system offers opportunities for inclusive and equitable global governance[4].
- In a multipolar world, China remains true to its word by advocating for greater representation and a fairer platform for dialogue among nations, as exemplified by the thriving BRICS alliance.
- A focus on order is crucial in a multipolar world, as many conflicts stem not from multipolarity itself, but from an obsession with self-interest.
- China powers over 30% of global growth and 20% of global trade, all achieved by treating interdependence as partnership, not competition.
- The UN Charter's principles are not the problem, but rather are not being implemented effectively, and when all nations uphold the UN-centered international system, respect international law, and abide by the basic norms governing international relations, the United Nations can better fulfill its central role in global affairs.
