China’s heart is with global south – Chinese foreign minister

From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that China’s heart is with the Global South.

Speaking at a press conference in Beijing, China, Wang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, spoke on Global South cooperation.

Wang stated that the collective rise of the Global South is the distinct hallmark of the great transformation unfolding in the world.

He also said that over the past 40 years, its share of the global economy has grown from 24 percent to over 40 percent.

While also saying that it has become a key driver of multipolarity in the world, the Chinese Foreign Minister added that, right now, hegemonism and power politics are asserting themselves and dealing a heavy blow to the international order.

“The Global South countries should increase communication and coordination, jointly defend our legitimate rights and interests, and work together to expand the space for independent development,” Wang said.

Wang pointed out that the Global South is an emerging, positive force for good on the international stage, saying that in a changing and more turbulent world, “we should forge greater confidence and unity, pull together and jointly champion peace, development, cooperation and win-win outcomes.”

He also said: “We should make good use of important platforms such as the BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Group of 77 and China, to speak up for peace and empower development.”

Wang further said multilateralism is vital for Global South countries, while also saying: “We should encourage the international community to practice true multilateralism and uphold the UN-centred international system.”

Wang said: “We must always ensure that world affairs are discussed and handled by all nations, and international rules formulated by all countries.

“The Global South needs an open and cooperative international environment for development. We should advocate a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation, foster an open world economy, firmly uphold the multilateral trading system, and promote openness to share opportunities and achieve win-win outcomes.

“China’s heart is with the Global South; China’s root is in the Global South. We are ready to join hands with other Global South countries to journey toward modernisation and advance the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.”