China has renewed its call for respect for national sovereignty and stronger multilateral cooperation, as Vice President Han Zheng addressed the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Han said major powers have a responsibility to safeguard international peace, uphold international law and respect the sovereignty and security of countries in the Middle East, including the Gulf.
His remarks came days after President Xi Jinping’s meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington, where the two leaders discussed a range of bilateral and international issues, including tensions involving Iran.
Han also called for an end to threats and sanctions against Cuba, urging the relevant country to lift its blockade on the Caribbean nation.
The Chinese vice president further stressed Beijing’s position that countries, regardless of their size, should have an equal voice in global affairs.
“China holds that all countries, big or small, are equal members of the international community, and that world affairs should be handled by all through consultation,” Han said.
The position aligns with China’s wider emphasis on cooperation with developing countries and a multilateral approach to international relations. It also comes as China and Nigeria mark 55 years of diplomatic relations, with both countries highlighting cooperation in infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, technology, investment and green development.
China’s 77th National Day celebration in Abuja on September 23 also highlighted the growing scope of China-Nigeria cooperation and opportunities for deeper economic and industrial partnerships.
