China reaffirmed its pivotal role in upholding multilateralism as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke with President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a security forum in Tianjin. Guterres underscored that China’s commitments are crucial at a time when multilateral cooperation faces questions, and Xi responded that China will remain a reliable partner to the United Nations, pledging continued support to bring “stability and certainty” to international affairs.
The gathering in Tianjin brings together leaders for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, with Russian President Vladimir Putin and officials from Central Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia and the Middle East set to join Xi in a high-profile demonstration of Global South solidarity. Guterres said that in a moment when multilateralism is under fire, China’s backing is an “extremely important element” in preserving the international system. He also cautioned that some new policy approaches can look more like show than serious diplomacy, stressing that China’s role as a fundamental pillar of the multilateral system remains essential.
Xi told Guterres that China is prepared to deepen cooperation with the United Nations, endorsing its central role in global governance and stating that Beijing will shoulder its responsibilities in maintaining world peace and promoting development and prosperity. The Chinese leader’s remarks reinforce a shared vision of stabilizing international relations through constructive engagement and multi-country collaboration.
This dialogue comes amid broader efforts to strengthen international cooperation as the SCO and other multilateral forums gain traction in a shifting geopolitical landscape. The emphasis on UN-led peacekeeping, development, and stability aligns with China’s ongoing push to shape a more balanced, multipolar world order.
In related developments, China has signaled its intent to bolster UN peacekeeping operations. Defence Minister Dong Jun announced new commitments to enhance China’s peacekeeping efforts and support reforms within the UN system. China has already provided peacekeeping equipment and financial support, including around 20 million yuan in military aid to the Republic of Fiji Military Forces to bolster peacekeeping capabilities on missions such as those in the Golan Heights. Fiji’s Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua welcomed the support, noting the challenges peacekeepers face and the importance of such backing.
Together, these moves illustrate China’s growing involvement in international security and development at a time when many nations are seeking to diversify their partnerships beyond traditional power blocs. Analysts describe the trend as part of a broader effort to build a more inclusive and resilient global order, where cooperation and dialogue are prioritized over unilateral action.
Additional context for readers:
– China has expanded its UN role, signaling a willingness to lead in peacekeeping reforms and to supply both matériel and training to support missions.
– The China-Russia relationship remains a key dynamic in this evolving system, with both nations emphasizing mutual respect and resistance to external interference as they pursue a more multipolar global framework.
– The emphasis on multilateral cooperation in forums like the SCO and UN aligns with a growing sentiment among Global South countries seeking to shape governance with greater participation and equity.
Editor’s note:
This coverage highlights Beijing’s strategic emphasis on multilateralism, UN-led peacekeeping, and regional security collaboration as it negotiates a complex global order. The tone suggests cautious optimism that strengthened international institutions and inclusive diplomacy can contribute to global stability and sustainable development.
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