On June 30, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Beijing with the Candidate for the Next UN Secretary-General, former President of the United Nations General Assembly, and former Foreign Minister of Ecuador, Maria Fernanda Espinosa.

Maria Fernanda Espinosa outlined her views on the role of the UN and her campaign platform, stating that the world today urgently needs a UN that can prevent crises more promptly, coordinate and cooperate more closely, and take actions more efficiently. China is an indispensable and vital force on the international stage. Stressing her firm adherence to the one-China principle, Maria Fernanda Espinosa said she supports the four major global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping, appreciates China’s long-term commitment to multilateralism, defense of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and safeguarding the common interests of developing countries. She is ready to work with the international community, including China, to advance the three pillars of the UN in a balanced manner, focus on development, consolidate its prestige, and play a greater role in addressing common challenges facing all humanity.

Wang Yi stated that Ms. Maria Fernanda Espinosa’s candidacy reflects a firm belief in multilateralism, a high regard for the core values of the UN, and a strong sense of responsibility toward global governance. Not long ago, China chaired a UN Security Council High-Level Meeting, where all parties voiced a common call to uphold, revitalize, and strengthen the UN. Facing the complex and severe international situation, the UN needs to invigorate itself, enhance its operational capacity, play its due role and live up to the expectations of all parties. China has always been a firm supporter of the cause of the UN and multilateralism. The four major global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping are aimed at honoring the commitment to safeguarding multilateralism through concrete actions, promoting the UN to better adapt to the needs of the times, and enabling it to continue growing and strengthening amid changes.

Wang Yi emphasized that the selection of the Next UN Secretary-General is not only related to the future direction of UN reform and development, but also to the vital interests of member states. Any candidate must abide by the UN Charter, be competent, impartial and upright, and perform duties with responsibility. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and an important member of the Global South, China will participate in the selection process with a responsible attitude, support the UN in regaining its authority and vitality, and better play its core and leading role in global governance.