Ministry of Foreign Affairs
People’s Republic of China
Concluding Remarks by China’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Geneva and Other International Organizations in Switzerland Ambassador Jia Guide at Seminar on Global Governance
Updated: February 28, 2026 21:25(From Chinese Mission to the United Nations Office at Geneva)

First of all, I would like to thank all our speakers and participants for a constructive and insightful discussion. President Fu Hua introduced the new book China’s Governance under Xi Jinping’s Leadership, highlighting China’s contribution to global governance reform. Chairman Perry noted that many key issues raised in the book are also widely discussed in the UK. Director-General Valovaya and other distinguished guests engaged in candid exchanges on strengthening multilateral action and enhancing coordination among Global South countries.

Your insights have been truly enlightening and have strengthened the foundation for mutual understanding and cooperation.

In a world marked by uncertainty, such a dialogue is especially valuable—not only for consensus it builds, but also for confidence and commitment it demonstrates. Even amid confrontation and decoupling, we must uphold multilateralism, foster cooperation, and work together to improve global governance.

Allow me to highlight three key points and share some of my observations.

First, we call for stronger multilateral cooperation. I fully agree with many speakers, including Prof. Katrougalos and Ambassador Eheth, that in a turbulent world where multilateralism faces strain, cooperation in addressing challenges is more essential than ever. We should uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, practice true multilateralism, safeguard free trade, enhance stability and certainty, and prevent a return to the law of the jungle.

Second, we give full play to Geneva’s multilateral platforms. Mr. Zhao Houlin and Director Correa introduced the unique roles played by the International Telecommunication Union and the South Centre in areas, such as setting standards for emerging technologies, and building capacity in developing countries. As a major hub for multilateral diplomacy hosting numerous UN agencies, Geneva remains vital to advancing inclusive and equitable global governance.

Third, we encourage broad participation in global governance. Several speakers, including Professor Yang Jiemian and Ambassador Osman, stressed the need to address the underrepresentation of the Global South and the widening North-South gap. I would like to emphasize what is said by Ambassador Osman, that under the current situation, the Global South should also be fully engaged in rule-making, and not only adapt to the laws made. I think colleagues here would agree with me that Professor Yang’s seven points in seven minutes and the three-stage theory was very impressive. Unequal sharing of development benefits and insufficient representation are major causes of failures in global governance. Dr. Bakker shared with us important insights in this regard. Dr. Bakker emphasized the importance of ESG. I’d like to express my appreciation to your acknowledging the important role of East Asian countries including China in the green transition, but allow me, Dr. Bakker, to clarify that China is still a developing country. At the same time, as I made clear in my opening remarks, we are trying to do our best. One example is that in future WTO negotiations, China will no longer ask for new special and differential treatment. I agree that we have to keep the international order with the UN at its core, but at the same time, we have to carry out reforms. We advocate extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits to ensure fair participation and equitable outcomes, while advancing people-centered development and modernization characterized by peaceful development and common prosperity.

Dear friends, 55 years ago, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 2758, which restored all lawful rights of the People’s Republic of China at the UN. This has profound and far-reaching significance for both China and the world. As a founding member of the UN and a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China has all along been a staunch builder of world peace, contributor to global development, defender of the international order and provider of public goods. Looking ahead, China will strengthen joint efforts with all parties to explore ways to reform and improve global governance and open up a bright future of peace, security, prosperity, and progress.

In conclusion, I wish to thank Ambassador Greminger and Ambassador Puyana. As representatives of Geneva-based think tanks and academia, you have skillfully guided the discussions and encouraged participants to share perspectives from different angles, greatly enriching this seminar.

Our thanks also go to all interpreters and staff for ensuring the success of this event.

Thank you.