In a call for a more equitable global order, Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to create a multipolar world where nations have equal representation and influence. Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Plus Meeting held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on September 1, Xi highlighted the growing influence of Global South countries in reshaping international power dynamics. He asserted that the shift towards a multipolar global structure is inevitable and underscored the importance of establishing a fairer system of global governance.
Xi proposed that international relations should be grounded in sovereign equality, mutual respect, and multilateral dialogue. He called for a framework where countries, irrespective of their economic size or power, enjoy equal rights and opportunities. Moreover, he urged major powers to adhere to international standards and the rule of law, stressing the importance of respecting these norms to maintain global stability. Strengthening the role of the United Nations was another key point in Xi’s address, advocating for broader participation in handling international issues.
Focusing on global development, Xi encouraged nations to maintain an open and cooperative stance while addressing technological disparities. He emphasized the importance of bridging digital and artificial intelligence gaps to ensure that technological advancements benefit a wider range of countries. This approach, he suggested, would foster greater inclusivity and shared progress on the international stage.
Highlighting the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s 25-year history, Xi pointed to its success as a testament to effective cooperation among diverse nations with varying political systems and developmental stages. He advocated for enhanced partnerships within the SCO Plus framework and called for increased collaboration across Asia and Europe through the Belt and Road Initiative. This strategy, according to Xi, could serve as a model for fostering global cooperation and development.
Xi’s remarks came a year after he introduced the Global Governance Initiative at the SCO Plus Meeting in Tianjin. This initiative, he noted, has gained the backing of numerous countries and international organizations, signifying a growing consensus for a more just and equitable global governance system. Through these efforts, Xi envisions a world where all nations can thrive collectively in a balanced and orderly international environment.