More Just and Equitable
Global Governance:
China’s Principles, Proposals
and Actions

The State Council Information Office of
the People’s Republic of China

June 2026

Contents

Preface

I. The World Today Faces Severe and Complex Challenges

II. The Global Governance Initiative Responds to Challenges
  of Our Times

III. China’s Contribution to Promoting Global Governance

IV. Guiding the Direction of Change Towards a Bright Future

V. Moving Forward Hand in Hand at a Critical Juncture in History

Conclusion

Preface

Global governance is a common endeavor that bears on the wellbeing of all humanity, and building a just and equitable global governance system is a shared vision long pursued by people from across the world.

Over 80 years ago, the United Nations (UN) was founded as a multilateral platform for countries to address international affairs through dialogue and consultation. It established international rules underpinning the rule of law, ushering in a new phase in global governance. After the Cold War, multipolarization and economic globalization began to gain momentum, and the concept of global governance grounded in coordination and cooperation was widely endorsed. In recent times, however, unilateralism, protectionism, and hegemonism have been spreading unchecked, while deficits in peace, development, security, and trust continue to expand. Reforming and improving global governance to resolve these challenges and letting the UN play a core role have thus become a critical topic for the future of humanity.

China has always been an active participant in, contributor to, and builder of global governance. In the new era, President Xi Jinping put forward the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity. In promoting a global governance system characterized by extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit, he has called for true multilateralism to foster an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization. In 2025, at a pivotal historical juncture marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Global War Against Fascism and the founding of the UN, President Xi proposed a new initiative, the Global Governance Initiative (GGI).

The GGI is designed to offer a Chinese solution to the two pressing questions of the era: what kind of global governance system should be established, and how global governance can be reformed and improved. Upon its introduction, it swiftly gained support from nearly 160 countries and international organizations, with over 60 countries joining the Group of Friends of Global Governance. The international community believes that the GGI sends a clear signal: uphold multilateralism, unite forces, and pursue a fair future. The GGI aligns with the growing trend towards greater democracy in international relations and bolsters international confidence in practicing multilateralism. It offers a clear and feasible roadmap for improving global governance, bringing valuable stability and positive energy to a turbulent world.

China has proposed the GGI to expedite the building of a more just and equitable global governance system. Resolutely upholding the UN’s authority and status is fundamental to the effective implementation of this initiative. Success will also hinge on major countries bearing a sense of responsibility, and on all nations uniting and cooperating to address deficits in peace and development. All countries should firmly uphold the international system with the UN at its core, safeguard the international order based on international law, and uphold the basic norms governing international relations underpinned by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, instead of reinventing the wheel.

The Chinese government is publishing this white paper to introduce China’s principles, proposals and actions in global governance, foster broader consensus within the international community, ensure more effective responses to global challenges, and build a more just and equitable global governance system.

I. The World Today Faces Severe
and Complex Challenges

Our world has entered an era marked by profound change on a scale unseen in a century. The pursuit of peace and development remains a daunting challenge. The international system established after World War II has been severely disrupted by multiple crises, placing global governance at a critical crossroads. Progress is imperative; failure to advance risks falling behind. Now, more than ever, the world needs to revitalize multilateralism, uphold the rule of law, and ensure more efficient governance.

1. Growing Challenges Call for More Effective Governance

Currently, the international landscape is undergoing profound changes on an unprecedented scale, with turmoil and upheaval more intense and pronounced. Political and economic disputes worldwide are escalating, revealing deep-seated conflicts, while “black swan” and “grey rhino” events keep emerging continually. The ship of human civilization has entered dangerous waters with hidden reefs and violent storms.

Geopolitical tensions are intensifying, with armed conflicts erupting in multiple regions. The Ukraine crisis has entered its fifth year, hostilities in the Middle East are spilling over and spreading, and multiple hotspot issues remain unresolved. The Global Peace Index continues to decline: in 2025, the number of armed conflicts reached a new high after World War II, with more than 50 countries directly embroiled in conflict or war. Global military spending has surged, militarism has resurfaced, and nuclear proliferation and “nuclear sharing” continue to pose a grave threat, leaving international security in a precarious state.

Global economic fragmentation is exacerbating, significantly hindering development. Economic globalization is facing strong headwinds, as some countries erect fences and barriers, pursue decoupling, sever industrial supply chains, and impose unilateral tariffs, disrupting the global economic order. Overall progress in the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has lagged far behind, with nearly 80 percent of assessable targets progressing slowly or even regressing. More than 830 million people worldwide still live in extreme poverty while 2.3 billion suffer from food insecurity, and the North-South divide and wealth gap continue to widen.

New challenges are arising in quick succession, with multiple crises intertwining and accumulating. The transition to a climate-resilient future is fraught with difficulties, the digital divide is deepening, and the misuse of artificial intelligence poses new security risks. Challenges to food and energy security are also intensifying, and non-traditional security threats such as terrorism, cyberattacks, transnational crime, and biosecurity risks are on the rise. The issues that human society must collectively address are becoming increasingly complex and diverse.

The universe has only one Earth, which is the shared home of all humanity. Countries are not riding separately in some 190 small boats, but aboard a single giant ship of shared future. Only by working together and supporting one another can we navigate through the storms of global challenges and sail towards a brighter future.

2. The Law of the Jungle Seriously Undermines the International Rule of Law

Built upon the ruins of the two world wars, the UN serves as a shelter for peace and development, and its Charter laid the institutional cornerstone for global governance. History can only move forward, not backward; we must draw lessons from the bloodshed and fires of war of the past and prevent a return to the law of the jungle at all costs.

Unilateralism and hegemonism cause only grave harm, openly trampling upon international law and the basic norms governing international relations. By bullying the small and weak and brazenly wielding force against sovereign states, certain countries have shown they prioritize their national interests above all else, applying double standards and challenging international justice for their own selfish gain. These nations gang up to form exclusive groups and blocs, inciting division and confrontation and carving spheres of influence today – in the 21st century – as they did in centuries gone by. By so doing they have become the major source of global turbulence.

De-globalization and protectionism are on the rise, while economic and trade issues are being politicized, instrumentalized, and weaponized. Some countries have instigated trade wars and tech wars, imposed unilateral sanctions illegally, and abused long-arm jurisdiction. They have single-mindedly sought to build “small yards with high walls” or “parallel systems”, and have overstretched the concept of national security to suppress and contain the economic and technological progress of other countries. These retrogressive actions violate the principles of the market economy, trample on the rules of free trade, and severely disrupt the international economic order.

Humanity now faces several crucial questions. Fairness and justice, or the law of the jungle? Openness and mutual benefit, or isolation and confrontation? The rule of law, or power politics? At this historical crossroads, we must be responsible and make the right choice.

3. It Is Imperative to Shore Up the Governance System

The UN is the most comprehensive, representative and authoritative international organization, and the UN-centered international system plays an irreplaceable and vital role in global governance. Over time, however, the current global governance system has become increasingly incompatible and misaligned with the realities of today and the evolving international landscape, and its shortcomings and deficiencies are growing ever more pronounced.

The UN’s authority is challenged. Disregarding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, a certain major power has withdrawn from international organizations and agreements, defunded key bodies, blocked Security Council resolutions, and paralyzed the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) dispute settlement mechanism. These actions have seriously disrupted the international order and caused further damage to multilateral mechanisms, eroding the foundation of trust in multilateral cooperation.

The effectiveness of multilateral institutions is in urgent need of improvement. As some countries refuse to fulfill their responsibilities and obligations, multilateral agendas are often left discussed but undecided, or decided but not implemented. Efforts must therefore focus on improving the operational efficiency, emergency response capabilities, and transparency of multilateral institutions such as the UN. At the same time, the existence of governance gaps in emerging fields – including artificial intelligence, cyberspace, and outer space – also demands attention.

The UN’s representation is critically inadequate. To maintain their hegemony and protect their own interests, some countries have long obstructed the reform process of the UN and its agencies, causing significant delays in reforms such as the IMF quota and World Bank shareholding. Developing countries remain underrepresented and their voices insufficiently heard.

The current governance system is certainly not perfect, but it needs neither to be dismantled and rebuilt in full, nor replaced entirely by a new system. Instead, as an international community, we must focus on reforming and improving the existing system to make it more compatible and aligned with the world’s realities, addressing governance shortcomings from a developmental perspective, and responding to the call of the times with a vision for progress.

4. More Global South Voices Need to Be Heard

The Global South is a vital force in seeking peace, pursuing development, and promoting cooperation, and its collective rise represents human progress. To stabilize and improve the world, the international community needs to be more responsive to the concerns of the Global South in international affairs and fully leverage its role.

The Global South has grown remarkably strong. After World War II, national independence and liberation movements swept across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, dismantling the global colonial system. The number of UN member states has increased from 51 at its founding in 1945 to 193 today. Based on purchasing power parity, the Global South now makes up over 60 percent of the world economy and contributes 80 percent to global economic growth, with multiple hubs of development across various regions. The monopolization of international affairs by a small number of countries is no longer sustainable, and long-standing historical injustices must be redressed.

This rise has brought a new dynamic to global governance. BRICS has undergone a historic expansion, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has become the largest regional intergovernmental organization in terms of territory and population. Together, they are playing a positive role in the development and reform of the global governance system. The G20 has become the premier platform for global economic governance, with emerging economies now accounting for more than half of its membership. Championing fairness and justice, the G77 and China have deepened South-South cooperation. Meanwhile, Global South countries have hosted a series of multilateral summits, contributing their share to global governance and leaving their imprint.

The times call for a model of global governance that is more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable. The process of securing greater respect for the Global South countries’ rights to development, voice, and decision-making in international affairs will mark a historic journey towards a more dynamic, effective, and hopeful global governance system.

II. The Global Governance Initiative
Responds to Challenges of Our Times

The Global Governance Initiative upholds the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and embraces a global governance vision characterized by extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits. It is built on five core concepts: sovereign equality, the international rule of law, multilateralism, a people-centered approach, and real actions. By addressing the crux and root causes of crises and challenges, the initiative provides sound guidance for building a more just and equitable global governance system.

1. Sovereign Equality

Sovereign equality is enshrined in the UN Charter as the first among all principles and the supreme norm regulating state-to-state relations. Countries, whether large or small, strong or weak, developed or developing, are equal members of the international community. Every nation’s sovereignty and dignity must be respected, and all countries are equally entitled to participate in, deliberate on, and benefit from global governance.

Equality is the premise of state-to-state relations. Countries should, in the spirit of mutual respect, conduct consultations on an equal footing and manage their differences appropriately. Major countries should lead by example in honoring equality, good faith, and cooperation, rather than leveraging their position of strength to engage in hegemonic, high-handed and abusive acts. If allowed to deviate from the principle of sovereign equality, international relations would degenerate into a game among powers, and international law would become groundless, leaving the world in perpetual chaos.

Sovereign equality is an essential requirement for solidarity against challenges. The future of all nations is bound by shared interests, common challenges, and collective responsibilities. Global governance cannot be dominated by a select few developed nations. Only when all countries participate equally can all sides build the political trust essential for solidarity and collaboration; only in this way can the resulting rules and decisions receive extensive recognition and rest on solid legal ground. This is the necessary approach to reaching broad consensus and creating powerful synergy.

Equality and inclusiveness are the inexorable progress in the evolution of the global governance system. Coexistence in diversity is a fundamental characteristic of human society, and multipolarity is vital to the evolving international landscape. A global governance system that is more representative, inclusive, and beneficial to all is an irreversible trend, and equal rights, equal opportunities, and equal rules are the shared aspirations of all peoples. Hegemony and power politics that run counter to the tide of history are destined to fail.

2. The International Rule of Law

The international rule of law is the fundamental safeguard for global governance. Only a global governance system that is grounded in the rule of law can provide all countries with a fair and just environment for development, achieve a balance between rights and obligations, and make international order more just and equitable.

Rigorously enforcing the international rule of law is rooted in upholding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. Confrontation and injustice in today’s world do not arise because the UN Charter is outdated, but because it is not effectively implemented. Its purposes and principles, such as maintaining international peace and security, promoting international cooperation, settling international disputes by peaceful means, and refraining from the threat or use of force in international relations, have established the fundamental norms governing international relations and underpinned post-war stability in the international order, and thus must be honored without the slightest compromise.

Rigorously enforcing the international rule of law hinges on safeguarding its justice and integrity. Only when international law is applied equally and universally, rather than selectively, can we truly distinguish right from wrong and advance peace and development. All nations are stakeholders in the international rule of law – without it, anyone at the dining table today could appear on the menu tomorrow. Major countries are the key forces in advancing international rule of law. They should lead by example in following rules and upholding the rule of law, rather than putting their own interests above international law or, even worse, imposing their own rules upon others.

Rigorously enforcing the international rule of law calls for improving rulemaking in emerging sectors. Human society is constantly evolving, and global governance rules must keep pace. New domains such as the deep seas, polar regions, outer space, and cyberspace, some of which are the common property of humanity and some represent the frontiers of future development, require urgent attention in order to establish rules and close gaps in their governance. All parties should uphold the principles of peace, sovereignty, inclusiveness, and joint governance, and put law in place for the development and utilization of new domains, so that they expand the space for cooperation rather than become arenas of rivalry. The governance of artificial intelligence should guard the red line of security and ethics, and be pursued in the spirit of openness, shared outcomes, and equal rights, to ensure AI for good and truly benefit humanity.

3. Multilateralism

Multilateralism emerged for the cause of peace and development, and multilateral mechanisms are vital for addressing global issues. No country can achieve development outside the global governance system, nor can it secure a future without participating in international cooperation. It is not a matter of whether we choose it or not, multilateralism is the only viable path forward.

Countries should stick to the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits. The essence of multilateralism lies in extensive consultation on international affairs and collective decision-making among all countries for the future of the world. Countries should pool wisdom through extensive consultation, gather strength through joint contribution, and promote universal interests through shared benefits. They should unequivocally oppose all forms of unilateralism, hegemony, dominance by a few countries, and bloc politics in the understanding that the deliberate erection of barriers will only push the world into the abyss of antagonism and confrontation.

Countries should be steadfast in safeguarding the central role of the United Nations. The United Nations is the primary platform for practicing multilateralism and advancing global governance. Its leading position must be upheld and remain rock solid; its role can only be reinforced, not weakened. All countries should reaffirm the founding purpose of the United Nations, work to restore its authority and vitality under new circumstances, and enable it to play a central role in coordinating global actions to address common challenges.

Countries should be firm in promoting multilateral dialogue, consultation, and cooperation. In light of the complexity of global challenges, no country can remain insulated from their impacts or resolve all issues alone. Countries should build consensus through dialogue, resolve disputes through consultation, and pursue win-win results through cooperation, striving to expand their common interests. Global and regional multilateral mechanisms should play a constructive role in this, pooling the resources and strengths of national governments, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations to increase the synergy and efficiency of global governance.

4. A People-Centered Approach

People’s wellbeing is a core concern of global governance. The people of every country across the world are the essential participants and direct beneficiaries of global governance. Only by serving public interests, boosting public confidence, and meeting public expectations can the global governance system win extensive support and function effectively.

Pursuing common development heightens the sense of gain among all peoples. Development concerns people’s life and dignity; it is a matter of hope or disappointment. World prosperity and stability cannot be built upon ever widening gaps between rich and poor. Countries must restore development to the center of the international agenda, mobilizing global resources to implement the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development without delay. The North-South divide must be bridged as soon as possible, and help should be provided to developing countries to boost their capacity for independent development, so that all nations have greater and fairer access to the fruits of development.

Addressing common challenges heightens the sense of security among all peoples. In today’s world, all countries share a common stake in security, and all must therefore embrace a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security while addressing the threats to this stake – whether traditional or non-traditional. In responding to risks and challenges such as climate change, public health, and cyberspace security, it is important for the people to truly feel that countries are taking action and that unity can overcome all difficulties.

Promoting mutual understanding and friendship heightens the sense of fulfillment among all peoples. Civilizations become colorful through exchanges and are enriched through mutual learning. Countries should let cultural exchanges prevail over estrangement, mutual learning over clashes, and inclusiveness over superiority. Cultural and personnel exchanges should be strengthened to break down ideological barriers between nations and social groups. A shared conviction for safeguarding common interests will allow all civilizations to thrive and succeed together.

5. Real Actions

Global governance finds its source of vitality in practice, hinges on action, and is verified by its effectiveness. A vision is realized only through concrete action. It falls on the international community to turn this vision into reality – setting common goals, embracing a problem-oriented approach, and acting in concert.

Coordinating overall progress and individual breakthroughs. A coordinated approach should be adopted to advance global governance agendas, address governance deficits, and prevent fragmentation in the governance system. Targeted efforts should also be made for the most pressing issues in individual countries, particularly developing countries, to achieve tangible progress in poverty reduction and in improving people’s wellbeing and closing the digital divide.

Addressing both symptoms and root causes. Given present conditions, feasible plans should be made to resolve the immediate challenges facing the world. The effectiveness in responding to major public crises and providing international public goods should be increased. With future development in mind, fundamental solutions should be explored to tackle chronic and persistent issues and bring change to the global governance system – which is lagging in reform – to align it with the evolving political and economic landscapes.

Synergizing North-South cooperation and South-South cooperation. The Global North and Global South should leverage their complementary strengths and move towards the same direction. Developed countries should diligently fulfill their international obligations and deliver on their commitments regarding development assistance and climate financing; they should not evade their international responsibilities under any pretext. Developing countries should unite to build their strength, improve South-South cooperation mechanisms, increase their capacity for collaborative development and their collective voice, and inject sustained momentum for improving global governance.

III. China’s Contribution to Promoting
Global Governance

As a responsible major country, China champions the building of a community with a shared future for humanity and takes the lead in practicing true multilateralism. It has consistently been a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development, a defender of the international order, and a provider of public goods, while actively advancing the efforts for building a more just and equitable global governance system.

1. Committing to Universal and Common Security

Humanity forms an indivisible community of security. As a major country with the best peace and security record, China has enshrined in its Constitution a commitment to peaceful development. It champions the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security, and has put forward the Global Security Initiative and acted on its principles, contributing to lasting world peace and stability.

Firmly safeguarding world peace within the framework of the UN. China faithfully fulfills its mission and duties as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, firmly supporting the UN in playing its core role in international affairs and the Security Council in playing its primary role in international peace and security. China also takes an active part in UN peacekeeping operations as the second largest contributor to the UN peacekeeping budget and the largest troop contributor among the permanent members of the UN Security Council. To date, more than 50,000 Chinese peacekeepers have been dispatched in 29 peacekeeping operations authorized by the UN Security Council. The country has also established the world’s first standing peacekeeping police unit and maintains a peacekeeping standby force of 8,000 troops.

On September 3, 2025, China celebrated the 80th anniversary of its victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Together with the international community, China will safeguard the victory of World War II, promote a correct understanding of that war, and send the powerful message that peace must be safeguarded and justice will prevail.

Maintaining global strategic stability. China pursues a national defense policy that is in nature defensive, upholds a firm commitment to a policy of no-first-use of nuclear weapons and a nuclear strategy of self-defense, and resolutely safeguards the international nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation regimes. It promoted the issuance of a joint statement of the leaders of the five nuclear-weapon states on preventing nuclear war and avoiding arms races, reiterating the view that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought, emphasizing the need to avoid military confrontation and prevent arms races and articulating a shared commitment to maintaining global strategic stability and reducing the risk of nuclear conflicts. China has put forward the principles of justice, cooperation, balance and effectiveness in arms control, and upholds the international arms control regime with the UN at its core.

Pioneering the use of a unique Chinese approach to addressing international flashpoints. China upholds the principles of non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs, political settlement of issues, objectivity and fairness, and addressing both symptoms and root causes, offering a new approach for finding constructive solutions to flashpoints.

On the Ukraine crisis, China follows the four key principles as its fundamental guide. It released China’s Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis and, together with Brazil and other Global South countries, launched the Group of Friends for Peace on the Ukraine crisis, building synergy and creating conditions for ceasefire and peace talks.

On the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, China has urged the UN Security Council to pass the first ceasefire resolution for Gaza since the outbreak of a new round of conflict. It has provided emergency humanitarian assistance to Gaza and taken a clear stand in support of the two-state solution, promoting a comprehensive, just, and lasting resolution of the Palestinian question.

 China has facilitated the historic reconciliation and restoration of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and 14 Palestinian factions visited China for reconciliation talks and signed the Beijing Declaration on Ending Division and Strengthening Palestinian National Unity. This wave of reconciliation in the Middle East has been widely welcomed. In promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, China has put forward the principles of peaceful coexistence, national sovereignty, international rule of law, and a holistic approach to development and security. Together with Pakistan, China has issued a five-point initiative of China and Pakistan for restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and Middle East Region.

Championing an Asian security model characterized by security for all, common ground amid differences, and dialogue and consultation, China has facilitated a ceasefire agreement between conflicting parties in northern Myanmar and played a constructive role in the border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand and the cross-border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan. It has proposed the Outlook on Peace and Development in the Horn of Africa, supporting countries in the region in responding to security challenges.

Reinforcing non-traditional security shields. China continues to support the development of the Global Public Security Cooperation Forum (Lianyungang) to build consensus among all parties and advance global public security governance. China advocates comprehensive measures for addressing both symptoms and root causes, and promotes international and regional counter-terrorism cooperation. It has facilitated the establishment of the Integrated Center for Countering Security Threats and Challenges of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and its Center for Combating Transnational Crime and Information Security Center, and the SCO Narcotics Control Center, playing an active role in helping other developing countries reinforce their counter-terrorism capacities.

In resolutely cracking down on transnational drug trafficking, China leads pragmatic anti-drug cooperation operations in the Greater Mekong Subregion and by the SCO and BRICS countries, and has taken the global lead in scheduling the whole class of fentanyl-related substances. It has combated cross-border crimes such as online gambling and telecom fraud, accelerated the development of an international alliance on combating telecom fraud, and dismantled large groups of overseas scam centers in cooperation with countries including Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. China has proposed the International Cooperation Initiative on Global Food Security within the framework of G20, facilitated the adoption of the BRICS Strategy on Food Security Cooperation, joined the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, and provided emergency humanitarian food assistance to multiple countries suffering food shortages or disasters.

2. Promoting Openness, Cooperation, and Common Development

China cannot develop in isolation from the rest of the world, nor can the world achieve overall prosperity without China. As the largest developing country, China has always pursued its own growth in the context of humanity’s shared development and upheld openness, win-win cooperation, inclusiveness, and shared benefits. Through Chinese modernization, the country has provided the world with new opportunities and boosted the global drive for modernization.

Contributing to building an open global economy. China has promoted trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and it has become the main trading partner of over 160 countries and regions, signing 24 free trade agreements with 31 countries and regions in the process. It has facilitated and achieved high-standard implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and signed the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade Protocol. It endeavors actively to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA) to expand the globally-oriented network of high-standard free trade areas. The country firmly safeguards the rule-based multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, engages fully and deeply in WTO reforms, and has announced that it will not seek new special and differential treatment in current and future negotiations at the WTO.

Bringing broader opportunities to the world with higher-standard opening up. China has expanded institutional opening up, removed all restrictions on foreign investment access in the manufacturing sector, continued to shorten the negative list for foreign investment, and fostered a world-leading business environment that is based on market principles, governed by law, and up to international standards. Steps have been taken to expand voluntary and unilateral opening up, with the launch of 23 pilot free trade zones, island-wide special customs operations in the Hainan Free Trade Port, and open platforms such as the China International Import Expo, China International Fair for Trade in Services, China International Consumer Products Expo, and China International Supply Chain Expo. Additionally, zero tariffs have been placed on the least developed countries and African countries that have established diplomatic relations with China. During the 14th Five-year Plan period (2021-2025), China’s imports of goods and services exceeded US$15 trillion, and its GDP is expected to increase from RMB140 trillion to RMB170 trillion in the next five years, as its vast market continues to realize its potential.

Achieving solid progress in deepening high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. China has promoted cooperation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to a new stage of high-quality development. It has established the world’s broadest and largest international cooperation platform and expanded the belt of development and road to happiness to benefit all parties.

Policy connectivity has built greater synergy. China has signed cooperation documents with over 150 countries and 30 international organizations, hosted three Belt and Road forums for international cooperation, established more than 30 special cooperation mechanisms in key areas such as economy, trade, energy and infrastructure, and established a secretariat for the forum.

Infrastructure connectivity has achieved leapfrog development. Flagship programs such as cross-border highways, railways, ports, and aviation hubs have made breakthroughs, and a general connectivity framework consisting of six corridors, six connectivity routes, and multiple countries and ports has now been realized. The China-Europe Railway Express freight service has operated more than 130,000 trips to date.

Trade connectivity has advanced despite challenges. In-depth alignment has been achieved in areas such as cross-border payments, digital authentication, and smart customs. In 2025, the volume of trade in goods between China and BRI participants reached RMB23.6 trillion, up by 6.3 percent year-on-year, accounting for 51.9 percent of the country’s foreign trade.

Financial connectivity has embraced greater diversity. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Silk Road Fund have provided financing support to hundreds of projects. Renminbi financing windows have been set up, and the two-way investment between China and its BRI partners totaled more than US$240 billion between 2021 and the first half of 2025.

People-to-people connectivity has become stronger. Landmark livelihood initiatives supported by Luban Workshops and Juncao technology have continued to advance, and communication and exchange have flourished in culture, tourism, education, and media, as well as between the youth of different nations.

Delivering effective results in implementing the Global Development Initiative. To accelerate the realization of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, China helps steer global development towards a new stage of balanced, coordinated and inclusive growth that delivers more robust, greener, and healthier global development.

Consensus on development as a priority continues to build, with more than 130 countries and international organizations supporting participation in the initiative and over 80 countries joining the Group of Friends of the Global Development Initiative. China has hosted the High-Level Dialogue on Global Development and the Forum on Global Action for Shared Development, encouraging all parties to make new commitments to and embark on a new journey towards realizing the Sustainable Development Goals.

Cooperation mechanisms continue to improve. China has signed more than 80 cooperation documents on implementing the initiative with other developing countries, international organizations, and financial institutions. Over 30 cooperation mechanisms have been established in eight key areas of the initiative, covering all 17 sustainable development goals. China has also set up a Global Development Promotion Center and a Global Knowledge Network for Development, and issued the Global Development Report. Together with the UN, it has established the China-UN Global South-South Development Facility, actively discussed the development of the Global Center for Sustainable Development in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme, and taken the initiative to establish the Institute of Global Development.

Resources for development cooperation continue to grow. More than US$23 billion of development funds of various types have been mobilized. China has established the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund, increased its total to US$4 billion, and launched the China-FAO South-South Cooperation Trust Fund (Phase III).

Pragmatic cooperation has delivered remarkable results. China has established a project pool under the Global Development Initiative, launched more than 1,800 cooperation projects, and completed the training of 80,000 people within the framework of the initiative, assisting other developing countries in improving their capacity for independent and sustainable development.

3. Practicing True Multilateralism

No matter how the world changes, China will always uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core, the international order underpinned by international law, and the basic norms governing international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. It advocates and practices true multilateralism and remains an active champion and strong proponent of multilateral cooperation.

Resolutely upholding the authority and status of the UN. As a founding member of the UN and the first country to sign the UN Charter, China has consistently upheld the central role of the UN in international affairs through concrete actions. The country’s contribution to the UN regular budget increased from less than 1 percent in 2000 to over 20 percent in 2025, making it the second largest contributor. It has paid in full its assessed contributions to the UN in support of the effective operation of UN agencies. It has launched and renewed the China-UN Peace and Development Fund and increased its input to the fund, providing strong support to major UN agendas.

China supports the UN in advancing the implementation of the Pact for the Future and in enhancing the quality, efficiency, and vitality of the organization through the UN80 Initiative. It actively supports the UN and its specialized agencies in establishing new institutions in China, including the UNESCO International Institute for STEM Education in Shanghai and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Shanghai Center. China’s efforts to supply outstanding talent to the UN have led to a steady increase in the share of Chinese employees in UN agencies and related international organizations. China has hosted the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women, boosting new progress in women’s well-rounded development.

Upholding the authority of the international rule of law and pushing for progress in international law-based governance. China has joined nearly all universal intergovernmental organizations and signed over 600 international conventions and amendments, fulfilling its treaty obligations in good faith and honoring its international commitments. The country held a conference marking the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, reaffirming and safeguarding the basic norms governing international relations and the principles of international law. China continues to provide firm support for the work of UN judicial bodies and remains an active participant in international judicial activities. Engaging in international law enforcement cooperation, it has increased efforts in anti-corruption action, the cross-border pursuit of fugitives, their repatriation and extradition, and recovery of assets. Additionally, it has initiated and led the creation of the International Organization for Mediation, filling a gap in the international mediation mechanism.

Participating in and leading G20 cooperation. China encourages the G20 – as a major forum for economic dialogue between developed and developing countries – to pursue international cooperation in the spirit of equal consultation and mutual benefit. In 2016, China hosted the G20 Hangzhou Summit, widely regarded as one of the most fruitful G20 summits to date. It issued what became a landmark G20 Leaders’ Communiqué, put development at the center of macroeconomic policy coordination for the first time, and endorsed consensus documents such as the G20 Guiding Principles for Global Investment Policymaking and G20 Blueprint on Innovative Growth, leaving China’s clear imprint in the group’s history. During the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, China set out its proposals for economic, financial, trade, digital, and ecological governance, promoting a world economy built on cooperation, stability, openness, innovation, and eco-friendliness. China also took the lead in supporting the African Union’s membership in the G20 to increase the representation of developing countries.

Advancing an Asia-Pacific community. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is the highest-level mechanism for economic cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, with the broadest coverage and greatest influence. China advocates the spirit of an Asia-Pacific family and promotes an Asia-Pacific community of shared future characterized by openness and inclusiveness, innovation-driven growth, greater connectivity, and mutually beneficial cooperation. Facilitated by China, the Shanghai Accord of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Declaration was adopted at the APEC meeting held in Shanghai in 2001, marking a new beginning for Asia-Pacific cooperation in the new century. In 2014, the APEC meeting in Beijing delivered multiple outcomes, including the 22nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Declaration – Beijing Agenda for an Integrated, Innovative and Interconnected Asia-Pacific, in which all parties pledged to foster an Asia-Pacific partnership for the future and outlined a vision for the long-term development and shared prosperity of the region.

In 2026, China will host the APEC meeting for a third time, under the theme “Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together”. The meeting will focus on three priorities: openness, innovation, and cooperation. All parties concerned will come together to recommit to the original aspirations of Asia-Pacific cooperation, focus on concrete actions towards their goals, and strive to turn their blueprint for a better Asia-Pacific community into reality.

4. Supporting the Global South in Playing a Greater Role

China will always be a member of the Global South, and in the Global South its roots will remain. No matter what the future holds, it will always keep the wellbeing of the Global South in mind. Acting on the principles of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith, and with a commitment to pursuing the greater good and shared interests, China has strengthened solidarity and cooperation with other developing countries, firmly safeguarded the common interests of the Global South in international affairs, and led the Global South in building strength through joint efforts.

Advancing high-quality development of greater BRICS cooperation. At the forefront of the Global South, BRICS countries are jointly committed to promoting world economic growth, improving global economic governance, and advancing democracy in international relations. China has played an active role in expanding and strengthening BRICS cooperation, reinforcing its institutions in response to the evolving times, and increasing its global influence. China and other BRICS countries have established the New Development Bank and formed the Contingent Reserve Arrangement, which have become an emerging force in the international financial system and landmark projects of Global South cooperation.

In 2017, the BRICS Xiamen Summit delivered more than 60 outcomes, giving rise to three key engines that drive cooperation – political security, trade and finance, and people-to-people exchange – as well as the “BRICS Plus” approach. In 2022, during the BRICS “China Year”, the BRICS Summit issued the Beijing Declaration, marking the beginning of the organization’s expansion. China has since worked with relevant parties to advance this historic enlargement, which represents a major milestone not only for BRICS, but also for the evolution of the international landscape. China has promoted a vision for BRICS centered on peace, innovation, green development, justice, and closer people-to-people exchanges. It continues to support more Global South countries in joining the cause of BRICS as full members, partner countries, or in the “BRICS Plus” format, to build the cooperation mechanism into a primary channel for strengthening solidarity and cooperation among Global South nations and a vanguard for advancing global governance reform.

Advancing the development and expansion of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The SCO is the first international organization named after a Chinese city, founded with China’s participation, and headquartered in the country. China champions the Shanghai Spirit of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development, and works towards a closer SCO community of shared future. Through the joint efforts of its member states, the SCO has grown into a group of 27 countries spanning Asia, Europe, and Africa, and its economic aggregate is approaching US$30 trillion. It has carried out cooperation in more than 50 areas, having become an important force for world peace and development and a guardian of international fairness and justice.

In 2025, the SCO Tianjin Summit formulated a development strategy for the coming decade. Leaders of SCO member states witnessed the inauguration of the four security centers and decided to establish an SCO Development Bank. China also announced the creation of three major China-SCO cooperation platforms, covering energy, green industry, and the digital economy, and three major cooperation centers for scientific and technological innovation, higher education, and vocational and technical education, and the decision to continue the implementation of the action plan for high-quality development of economic and trade cooperation among SCO members. Together, these initiatives have enhanced solidarity and coordination among member states and injected new vitality into the organization, propelling it into a new stage of high-quality development and towards even greater successes.

Promoting the creation of a global governance architecture that is more balanced and effective. China believes that the international financial architecture should be more balanced in representation and better reflect the realities of the world economy. It argues that the World Bank should conduct shareholding reviews and the International Monetary Fund should carry out quota share realignment in accordance with the agreed timeframes and roadmaps to address the democratic deficit in global financial governance.

China supports the reform of the UN Security Council, believing that increasing the representation of developing countries is the right direction of the reform, and that it is imperative to address the historical injustice suffered by Africa, with priority and special arrangements made for the continent’s demands. It maintains communication and coordination with its partners in the Global South through mechanisms such as the Non-Aligned Movement and the Group of 77, and plays an active role in championing justice at major international events such as the UN General Assembly. Together, they have made joint efforts to safeguard international fairness and justice and defend their legitimate rights and interests.

Assisting the Global South in jointly embarking on a path towards modernization. China has proposed and advanced an initiative for open and inclusive Global South cooperation, implemented the eight measures in support of Global South cooperation, and encouraged the Global South to become a staunch force for peace, a driving force for open development, a builder of global governance, and an advocate for exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations.

At the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, bilateral relations between China and all African countries with which it has diplomatic ties were officially elevated to the level of strategic relations, and the overall positioning of China-Africa relations was elevated to an all-weather China-Africa community of shared future for the new era. China has also pledged to work with African countries to promote modernization in six areas and implement 10 partnership actions.

The China-Arab States Summit decided to build a China-Arab community of shared future in the new era and carry out eight major cooperation initiatives for pragmatic China-Arab cooperation. China has established a comprehensive cooperative partnership with Latin American and Caribbean countries based on equality, mutual benefit, and shared development. Together, they have founded the Forum of China and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, jointly launching the five programs on solidarity, development, civilization, peace, and people-to-people connectivity. Adhering to the principles of the Four Fully Respects, China has carried out friendly cooperation with Pacific island countries and developed seven cooperation platforms to support them in accelerating efforts to achieve independent and sustainable development.

5. Promoting Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilizations

Recognizing the fundamental reality of diversity in world civilizations and the urgent need to transcend civilizational conflicts, China has proposed the Global Civilization Initiative and promoted its implementation, championing the common values of humanity and fostering deeper exchanges and understanding among different peoples, and wider interactions and greater integration of diverse cultures in a joint effort to advance the development and progress of human civilization.

Promoting global dialogue among civilizations. China upholds a vision of civilization characterized by equality, mutual learning, dialogue, and inclusiveness, and promotes harmonious coexistence among different civilizations to share and admire the beauty of all. On June 7, 2024, the country facilitated the unanimous adoption of a resolution at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, which designated June 10 as International Day for Dialogue Among Civilizations. For its celebration, vibrant themed activities were held at UN venues in New York and Geneva and in countries around the world.

Elsewhere, China has convened the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations and the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting, and erected many multi-level international platforms such as the World Conference of Classics, the Liangzhu Forum, and the Alliance for Cultural Heritage in Asia. It has signed cooperation agreements on culture, cultural relics, and tourism with over 100 countries, deepening cooperation in joint archaeological research, world heritage protection, and the translation of classic works. Through concrete actions, the country promotes global dialogue among civilizations and protects the cultural treasures of all humanity.

The CPC in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-Level Meeting and the CPC and World Political Parties Summit encourage mutual learning between Chinese modernization – a new model for human progress – and other civilizations, continuously enriching the garden of world civilizations, and making new contributions to humanity’s exploration of paths to modernization.

Advancing the development and progress of human rights. China advocates protecting human rights through security, advancing human rights through development, and promoting human rights through cooperation, steering global human rights governance in a more just, fair, reasonable, and inclusive direction. It has acceded to or ratified 29 international human rights instruments and has played a constructive role in the formulation of several major international human rights documents, including the Declaration on the Right to Development and the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action.

China has served six terms as a member of the UN Human Rights Council, making it one of the most frequently elected and longest-serving countries. In this role, it has promoted the adoption by the council of resolutions such as “The Contribution of Development to the Enjoyment of All Human Rights”, “The Negative Impact of the Legacies of Colonialism on the Enjoyment of Human Rights”, “Promoting and Protecting Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Within the Context of Addressing Inequalities”, and “Promoting Accessibility for the Full Enjoyment of All Human Rights by All”.

Promoting people-to-people exchanges and friendship. China advances various forms of people-to-people diplomacy, city-to-city diplomacy, and public diplomacy. It has held cultural exchange years, tourism years, and education years with many countries, and established over 3,000 pairs of sister cities (provinces/states) with more than 150 countries, actively building bridges for people-to-people exchanges. Entry policies are being continually optimized, with unilateral visa-free access already in place for 50 countries, full mutual visa exemption for 29 countries, and 240-hour transit visa-free policy expanded to 55 countries across 65 entry ports. In 2025, 30.08 million foreigners entered China visa-free, accounting for 73.1 percent of all foreign arrivals, a year-on-year increase of 49.5 percent.

Sports also serve as a bridge for enhancing friendship among peoples. In recent years, China has successfully hosted the Beijing Winter Olympics, the Chengdu FISU World University Games, the Hangzhou Asian Games, and the Harbin Asian Winter Games, carrying forward the Olympic motto of “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together”. The youth represent the future of people-to-people friendship. In recognition of this, during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visits in the US and France in November 2023 and May 2024, China announced an initiative to invite 50,000 young Americans to China for exchange and study over the five years starting from 2023 and an initiative to invite more than 10,000 French students to study in China and double the scale of European youth exchanges in China over the three years starting from 2024. It has also held China-Africa Youth Festivals and “Chinese Bridge” summer camps for young students, planting the seeds of friendship in the hearts of the younger generation.

6. Providing More Public Goods for the International Community

Faced with ever-increasing global challenges, the global governance system must keep pace with the times, find solutions to old problems, and fill the gaps in rules in new areas. China has demonstrated the sense of responsibility of a major country that integrates knowledge and action, actively created international public goods, and contributed new solutions to global governance.

Firmly leading global climate governance. China firmly upholds and promotes the implementation of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. The country adheres to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and works to build a fair and rational global climate governance system underpinned by cooperation for mutual benefit.

In 2020, at the UN General Assembly, China solemnly declared that it would strive to peak its carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060. In 2025, at the UN Climate Change Summit, it announced a new round of nationally determined contributions, including reducing economy-wide net greenhouse gas emissions by 7 to 10 percent from peak levels by 2035, striving to do better; increasing the share of non-fossil fuels in total energy consumption to over 30 percent; and scaling up the forest stock volume and developing a carbon emissions trading market.

China has initiated the establishment of the BASIC and the Ministerial on Climate Action to build consensus, and has continued to help developing countries improve their capacity to address climate change through South-South cooperation. As of the end of October 2025, China had signed 55 cooperation documents with 43 developing countries, implemented over 300 sessions of capacity-building programs, and had provided and mobilized over RMB177 billion in program funding since 2016.

Advancing the development of artificial intelligence for good and for all. China has put forward the Global AI Governance Initiative, advocating a people-centered and AI-for-good approach. It supports the UN in playing a central role and promotes the formation of a global AI governance system with broad consensus to benefit all humanity, calling for strengthened international cooperation and assistance for developing countries to bridge the AI divide. The country has promoted the UN General Assembly’s adoption of a resolution on enhancing international cooperation on AI capacity building, and proposed and implemented the AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All. It initiated the establishment of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building, built the Digital South project under the Global Development Project Pool, and has held multiple capacity-building workshops and thematic dialogues in this regard.

Additionally, it has proposed the establishment of a World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization and put forward the Global AI Governance Action Plan and the AI+ International Cooperation Initiative, contributing Chinese wisdom and solutions to AI development and governance. China attaches great importance to preventing risks in the military applications of AI and proposes that all countries should adopt a prudent and responsible approach in the development and use of relevant technologies, to ensure that weapon systems remain under human control at all times and to prevent an AI arms race.

Contributing China’s strength to safeguarding global public health security. China actively participates in global health affairs and conducts health exchanges and cooperation through multiple channels and at multiple levels. It provides substantial international assistance in the health sector, and has actively engaged in major international health actions such as fighting the Ebola outbreak and the Covid-19 pandemic. It strives to bridge the immunization gap and the health deficit, and advocates jointly building a community of health for all.

China has signed health cooperation agreements with over 160 countries and international organizations, and initiated and participated in nine international and regional health cooperation mechanisms, including those between China and African countries, between China and Arab states, and between China and Southeast Asian nations. China has dispatched more than 30,000 medical workers to 77 countries and regions and treated 300 million patients. It has carried out medical outreach programs such as the Brightness Action, the Heart Care Action, and the Smile Action to provide free treatment of cataract, heart disease and dental defects, and has implemented the New Shennong Initiative, a program named after the mythical Shennong who tasted 100 herbs to discover their medical properties, to find new medicinal herbs worldwide for application in Traditional Chinese Medicine. China continues to support the World Health Organization (WHO) in playing a central coordinating role in global health governance and has deeply engaged in and led key agendas, including the revision of the International Health Regulations, the negotiation of the Pandemic Agreement, and the reform of global health governance architecture and WHO governance.

Actively leading the global biodiversity governance. Guided by the principle that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets, China advances eco-environmental conservation as a priority, pursues green development, and has become an important participant, contributor, and torchbearer in the global endeavor to build an eco-civilization. As the presidency of the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity, China issued the Kunming Declaration and spearheaded the adoption of the historic Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, guiding the direction and drawing a blueprint for global biodiversity protection through 2030 and beyond. The country has since taken the lead in launching the implementation initiative on the framework and in establishing the Kunming Biodiversity Fund. With an investment of RMB1.5 billion, the fund has to date supported 31 projects and covered 45 developing countries, providing sustained momentum for the implementation of the framework. It has also advocated for the establishment of the International Coalition for Green Development on the Belt and Road, continued to deepen bilateral and multilateral dialogue and exchange, and worked to promote the fruitful results of South-South cooperation on biodiversity protection. In 2019, China became the largest contributor to the core budget of the Convention on Biological Diversity and its protocols, as well as the largest contributor among developing countries to the Global Environment Facility, positions it maintains to this day.

Promoting the improvement of governance rules for new domains. China is advancing the transformation of the global internet governance system, advocating four principles: respecting cyber sovereignty, safeguarding peace and security, promoting openness and cooperation, and ensuring good order. It has held the World Internet Conference for 12 consecutive years since 2014, and put forward the Global Initiative on Data Security and the Global Cross-Border Data Flow Cooperation Initiative. China has supported the establishment of the World Data Organization in Beijing, and supported the United Nations as the main channel for advancing global cyberspace and digital governance, working with all parties to build a community of shared future in cyberspace.

China actively promotes global ocean governance, and facilitated the conclusion of the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction as one of the first signatories. The country holds observer status in the Arctic Council, advocates building a Polar Silk Road, and promotes joint international efforts to protect and sustainably use Antarctic marine living resources.

China is committed to lasting peace and security in outer space, firmly upholding the international space order based on the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. It opposes an arms race in this realm, supports the United Nations in playing its central role, and safeguards the common rights and interests of all countries in the peaceful use of outer space.

IV. Guiding the Direction of Change
Towards a Bright Future

The Global Governance Initiative quickly received widespread support from nearly 160 countries and international organizations upon its announcement, and China’s ideas and actions have increasingly resonated with and received positive response from the international community. The reason behind this lies in the fact that China understands how to meet the call of the day and shape the trends of our times; that the GGI, while rooted in China, benefits the world; and that grounded in today’s realities while opening up the future, China is contributing wisdom and strength to the progress of human civilization.

1. Building Broad Consensus on Improving Global Governance

China has put forward a series of new ideas and propositions that champion shared values and joint action, responding to the common aspirations of the international community and addressing the most pressing issues in global governance.

Extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits are aspired by all. A world so vast is bound to face many challenges. What kind of global governance system benefits the world and all its peoples? China believes that global affairs should be discussed by all, the governance system should be built by all, and development outcomes should be shared by all. This approach tackles problems at their root, represents the common aspirations of the vast majority of countries, and seeks the greatest common ground of shared interests for all nations in the world.

An equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization are the trends of the times. China advocates that all countries have a place in global governance and play their due roles. Together, they should build the world economy stronger and share the fruits equitably. Let economic globalization penetrate the dark room of protectionism like fresh air and bright sunshine to the benefit of all. This truly aligns with the trend of the times and the aspirations of all people.

True multilateralism is the only path forward. Global governance is both broad in scope and specific in practice. China offers a clear and all-encompassing approach: to champion and apply true multilateralism. Time and again, experience has shown that only when multilateralism is acted upon and multilateral coordination and cooperation are strong and effective, can global governance advance and human wellbeing be guaranteed. Without multilateralism humanity cannot develop and the world cannot progress.

The common values of humanity are a universal guide. With more than eight billion people, over 200 countries and regions, and more than 2,500 ethnic groups and many religions in our world, respecting diversity and differences while forging a great synergy across systems, civilizations, and countries is crucial to the success of global governance. China promotes the common values of humanity – peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy, and freedom. These values align with the core ideas of solidarity, coexistence, and win-win cooperation advocated by various civilizations, laying a value foundation for jointly improving global governance.

2. Demonstrating a Global Vision and a Sense of Responsibility

By sharing its philosophy on global governance and proposing the Global Governance Initiative, China has demonstrated a sense of responsibility in fulfilling the CPC’s original aspiration and founding mission. Upholding fundamental principles while breaking new ground, it champions the country’s rich diplomatic traditions and draws strength from its fine traditional culture, advancing with and leading the times while remaining committed to action.

China’s global governance philosophy originates from the CPC’s global vision. Since its founding 105 years ago, the CPC has always taken as its mission the pursuit of progress for humanity and great harmony for the world. It is this mission that determines China’s noble goal in participating in global governance: to strive to turn the aspirations of the Chinese people and people of all countries for a better life into reality. The Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee emphasized the building of a community with a shared future for humanity and the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and the Global Governance Initiative, providing clear guidance for China to work hand in hand with other countries to reform and improve the global governance system.

China’s global governance philosophy carries forward the fine traditions of its diplomacy. As early as the 1950s, Chairman Mao Zedong said that China ought to make a greater contribution to humanity. Acting on this vision, the PRC has remained committed to an independent foreign policy of peace, and put forward the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, the Three Worlds theory, and the idea of establishing a new global political and economic order, proactively safeguarding the interests of developing countries. For over 70 years, its foreign policy has remained steadfast in its original aspiration to uphold fairness and justice, and its mission to promote human progress has only deepened over time. This record continues to provide a source of strength for China’s participation in and leadership of global governance in the new era.

China’s global governance philosophy is rooted in the profound heritage of the Chinese civilization. Throughout its more than 5,000 years of civilization, the Chinese nation has always pursued peace, concord, and harmony across generations. Since ancient times, it has cherished the lofty ideal of “great harmony under Heaven”, the governance philosophy of “great wisdom governing through sound institutions”, the spiritual pursuit of “pulling together in times of difficulty”, the strong conviction that “the people are the foundation of the state”, and the practical approach of “applying knowledge in action”. Under new historical conditions, these elements of wisdom have undergone a creative transformation and innovative progress, offering timeless insights for addressing global challenges.

3. Expanding the Practical Pathways for Building a Community with a Shared Future for Humanity

Over a decade ago, President Xi Jinping put forward the important vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity, with the goal of creating a better world and a better life for people of all countries. Since then, under the banner of building a community with a shared future for humanity, China has adopted a series of initiatives to confront various global risks and challenges, continuously enriching the practice of global governance.

In the face of a widening North‑South divide and severe delays in implementing the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, China has proposed the Global Development Initiative to advance common development. In the face of complex international and regional situations and security governance challenges – especially when certain countries seek absolute security at the expense of other countries’ security – China put forward the Global Security Initiative in time to address the peace deficit and tackle security problems. Amid a rising clamor of “clash of civilizations” and “confrontation between different systems”, and the stoking of “antagonism of values” by some countries, China has proposed the Global Civilization Initiative to promote exchange and mutual learning among civilizations. Now, faced with a widening governance deficit and growing efforts to undermine the United Nations and multilateralism, China has put forward the Global Governance Initiative, expanding on the institutions of the other three global initiatives and aiming at building a more just and equitable global governance system.

Providing systematic solutions, China’s four major global initiatives run in parallel with a focus on different domains and form a complete action framework that promotes prosperity through development, ensures stability through security, enhances mutual trust through exchanges between civilizations, and seeks justice through governance. Together, they lead to an open, inclusive, clean, and beautiful world that enjoys lasting peace, universal security, and common prosperity, constituting an important pillar for building a community with a shared future for humanity.

4. Opening Up New Horizons for Political Civilization of Humanity

Throughout history, humanity has experienced innumerable wars – either hot or cold – but has emerged from each to achieve remarkable progress. Today, the world faces a broader and deeper transformation, and where it will head to depends on the choices of individual countries. By proposing the Global Governance Initiative and a series of new ideas and approaches, China has deepened its understanding of the laws governing the development of human society and promoted the advancement of human political civilization.

Breaking free from the outdated “core-periphery” framework of the old international order. A world in which just a few countries dominate and most are subordinate, and where the rich become richer while the poor become poorer, is not a good world. Whether through the so-called “hegemonic stability theory”, “Western-centrism”, “neoliberalism”, or the “democratic peace theory”, the result has been a world marred by disunity and injustice, with turmoil and chaos in many regions. China stands firmly on the right side of history, is committed to promoting greater democracy in international relations so that developing countries can truly become equal members of the international community and masters of their own future.

Transcending the flawed logic that “might makes right”. The outdated mindset of hegemonism and power politics cannot adapt to the new reality of a multipolar world. Frequent bullying and big-stick coercion and extortion have opened the Pandora’s box for a return to the law of the jungle. China stands firmly on the side of fairness and justice, remaining a pillar of strength amidst the tumultuous changes and upheavals of the world. It clearly advocates the international rule of law and will never allow whoever has the bigger fist to call the shots. Through its efforts, the international community has formed a consensus that calls for fairness, not hegemony.

Abandoning the zero-sum mentality of “winner takes all”. Blocking others’ path will not get you further; when blowing out others’ lamps, the fire will burn your beard. Protectionism is a fire that burns those who set it, and the pursuit of absolute security only adds fuel to the flames. China stands firmly on the side of win-win cooperation, taking concrete actions to pursue harmonious coexistence and seeking its own success while helping others succeed. It advocates that the fruits of governance should be shared by all and that no country should be left behind, so that every member of the international community becomes a winner.

V. Moving Forward Hand in Hand at
a Critical Juncture in History

The world has entered a new period of turbulence and transformation, and humanity once again faces a choice: a future marked by peace, dialogue, and win-win cooperation, or one marred by war, confrontation, and zero-sum competition. It is encouraging to see that with broad support from the international community, the Global Governance Initiative is drawing wide participation. It must also be understood, however, that great undertakings are rarely achieved overnight. To advance the initiative, all parties must persevere in the face of challenges, rise above disputes, and work together to build a more just and equitable global governance system.

1. Acting in Global Interest and Planning for the Benefit of Future Generations

Global governance concerns the shared and long-term interests of all people, and its essence lies not in deal making but in the pursuit of justice. China calls on all countries to bear in mind the future of humanity and the wellbeing of their people, to translate the vision of the GGI into concrete actions, and to work towards lasting achievements that benefit all the people for generations to come.

In our global village, all countries are connected, and their interests are closely intertwined. A nation’s interests are better realized only when they align with the interests of all. Putting one’s own interests first leads only to going it alone, and actions that harm others only serve to harm oneself. In participating in global governance, all countries should adopt a broad vision of shared global responsibility that transcends narrow self-interests. Division and conflict should be overcome with an open mind, with all nations working for humanity’s shared future and building a shared home to prevent the “tragedy of the commons”.

Global governance is about establishing rules and managing the world on a long-term basis. It requires upholding the principle of intergenerational equity and balancing present needs with those of the future. We must neither deplete the resources left to us by our ancestors – jeopardizing the future of posterity – nor pass on to the next generation the problems that we should solve. The baton of history is in our hands, and the question of where global governance is headed demands an answer. Our generation must offer a response worthy of our times and demonstrate vision and wisdom to build a global governance system that is fairer and more equitable, stable, and effective. Only then can we pass on to future generations a more peaceful, prosperous, and beautiful world.

2. Rising to Challenges with Firm Confidence

Building a more just and equitable global governance system is a noble goal that is feasible and attainable, but it is also a gradual historical process. China believes that as long as all parties remain steadfast in their resolve and persist in their efforts, step by step, this vision is sure to become a reality.

A multipolar world is rapidly emerging, and the trend towards democracy and the rule of law in international relations is unstoppable. Human society is bound to evolve, from confrontation to cooperation, imbalance to balance, division to coexistence. As the times progress and the people awaken, power politics and “exclusive governing clubs” are losing their foundation. As long as the torch of multilateralism is held high, the cause of global governance will pierce through the darkness and reach a brighter future.

The world today is marked by both change and turbulence. Turning chaos into order is no easy task, and reaching a consensus on global governance requires overcoming conflicts and differences through arduous effort. The road is long, but we will reach our destination if we keep moving forward. The task is formidable, but we are sure to succeed as long as we persist. All countries must work hard and make unremitting efforts to push forward the great cause of reforming and improving global governance – no one should look on, hesitate, or slack off.

3. Let’s Unite and Act

Global governance promotes the common wellbeing of the international community and relies on the collective efforts of all nations. China advocates that countries unite and cooperate, take concrete action, and transform the vision and blueprint of the GGI into a roadmap and timeline for joint action.

In addressing the diverse interests of different countries, the key lies in seeking common ground while shelving differences. We should create the greatest synergy for peaceful development and win-win cooperation, united under a single system, order, and set of rules. We must strengthen the UN as the core mechanism for practicing multilateralism and the primary platform for global governance. Unity is strength. Only through solidarity and cooperation can we deliver results and overcome major challenges for the benefit of all. Only then can we translate GGI principles into the broadest consensus and the most powerful action.

The successful implementation of the GGI requires major countries to shoulder their responsibilities, multilateral mechanisms to play their roles, and the international community to take concrete action. We need to prioritize urgent issues and work to de-escalate flashpoints. We should focus on improving communication and cooperation in areas where there is an urgent need for better governance. These include reform of the international financial architecture, artificial intelligence, cyberspace, climate change, trade, and outer space. We will build consensus, secure outcomes, and strive for an early success in global governance.

Conclusion

This is an era of challenges. But it is also one of hope. An era where a brighter future beckons, provided we work continuously for the good of generations to come. The Global Governance Initiative is a path to this goal, balancing lofty ideals with practical action and driving progress towards more effective global governance, step by step.

The initiative stands at the forefront of our era, offering fresh momentum for building a community with a shared future for humanity and serving as a compass to help the great ship of history chart its course through turbulent waters. It is yet another significant public good that China has contributed to the world.

Looking ahead, as the international community gains a deeper understanding of this initiative and participates in it, the progressive forces championing multilateralism will grow stronger, and the grand goal of building a more just and equitable global governance system will gradually become a reality.

China stands ready to work hand in hand with all other countries to implement the initiative under the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits. Together, we can expand the scope and influence of multilateralism, let the light of fairness and justice illuminate the world, and bring the achievements of global governance to all nations. Together, we can create a brighter future for humanity and the progress of human civilization.