President Xi unveils Global Governance Initiative

Equality among nations, practical cooperation, safeguarding of UN authority urged. Xu Wei reports

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President Xi Jinping unveiled the Global Governance Initiative at a grand gathering with leaders from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation family on September 1, stressing Beijing's readiness to work with all countries for a more just and equitable global governance system.

The Chinese president expounded on his fourth global initiative, after the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilisation Initiative, at the “Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Plus” Meeting in Tianjin.

The meeting brought together leaders of more than 20 countries from the SCO family, including member states, observer states and dialogue partners, as well as 10 international organisations.

In explaining the initiative, Xi pointed out that the Cold War mentality, hegemony and protectionism continue to haunt the world, and “global governance has come to a new crossroads”.

He highlighted five principles for the Global Governance Initiative — adherence to sovereign equality, abiding by international rule of law, practising true multilateralism, advocating the people-centred approach and focusing on taking real actions.

"We should maintain that all countries, regardless of size, strength and wealth, are equal participants, decision-makers and beneficiaries in global governance," Xi said.

"We should promote greater democracy in international relations and increase the representation and voice of developing countries," he said.

He warned against “double standards” and rules imposed by “a few countries”, stressing that the United Nations must remain at the core of global governance.