Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday called on the United Nations (UN) Security Council to revisit its original mission and keep abreast with the times, better responding to the expectations of people around the world.
Wang made the remarks during a press briefing at the UN headquarters after chairing a high-level Security Council meeting. When asked about China's evaluation of the Security Council's role and suggestions for better fulfilling its mandate, Wang urged the Council to take more timely and effective action in the face of major crises and conflicts, stressing that the current situation can no longer continue.
As 2025 marks the 80th founding anniversary of the UN, he outlined four major proposals for enhancing the Security Council's effectiveness.
First, the common good should be given priority, Wang said. All countries should prioritize the common interests of the international community, make objective and fair judgments in accordance with international law and the basic norms governing international relations, and play an active and positive role, he said.
Second, sincere cooperation is needed, Wang said. He highlighted consensus-based decision-making as the foundation for effective Security Council operations. However, he noted, some member states have tried to turn the Security Council into a venue for attacks and accusations, using the international public instrument as a geopolitical tool, which goes against the original purpose of its founders. "Restoring unity among the five permanent members is an urgent priority, and it must start with constructive dialogue," he added.
Third, commitments must be honored, the foreign minister said. Wang stressed that resolutions adopted by the Security Council, under the UN Charter, are legally binding and must be fully implemented without exception. He called on all UN member states, particularly Security Council members, to avoid selective application or double standards when it comes to implementing these resolutions.
Fourth, the Security Council should be reformed and improved, Wand said. The foreign minister said China supports continuing extensive and democratic consultations to seek consensus on UN reforms, including those concerning the Security Council, to make the Council more representative and action oriented. He reaffirmed China's commitment to playing a constructive role in building a Security Council that meets the needs of the 21st century.
Chinese FM calls on UN Security Council to better respond to int'l expectations
Chinese FM calls on UN Security Council to better respond to int'l expectations
