By Lawal Sale
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has reaffirmed China’s commitment to the Global South, describing the developing world as a rising force shaping the future of the international order.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday in Beijing on the sidelines of the fourth session of the14th National People’sCongress (NPC), the Chinese foreign minister said the “collective rise of the Global South” is one of the most defining developments in global politics. He noted that over the past four decades the Global South’s share of the global economy has expanded from about 24 percent to more than 40 percent, making it an increasingly important driver of global multipolarity.
Wang stressed that countries of the Global South must strengthen communication and coordination at a time when hegemonism and power politics are putting pressure on the international order.
According to him, closer cooperation will enable developing nations to defend their legitimate rights and expand opportunities for independent development.
He described the Global South as a “positive force for good” in world affairs and called for greater unity among developing countries to promote peace, development and mutually beneficial cooperation.
Wang highlighted platforms such as BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Group of 77 with China as important mechanisms for amplifying the voice of developing countries and advancing development priorities.
He also underscored the importance of multilateralism, urging the international community to uphold the United Nations-centered international system and ensure that global rules are formulated through broad participation.
He further called for an open and cooperative global economic environment, advocating inclusive economic globalization, support for the multilateral trading system and expanded openness to create shared opportunities.
“China’s heart is with the Global South; China’s root is in the Global South,” Wang said, adding that China stands ready to work with other developing countries to pursue modernization and build a community with a shared future for humanity. (GSF)
