Wang Yi meets with candidate for UN secretary-general

The United Nations serves as an important pillar for the common development of all nations and, although the organization is not perfect, the world would be far worse off without it, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday.

Wang made the remarks when meeting with Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Guyana's permanent representative to the UN and a candidate to be the next UN secretary-general, in Beijing.

Rodrigues-Birkett briefed Wang on her campaign platform and vision for the development of the UN, stressing that she would continue to promote reform to make the organization more agile, efficient and better uphold the principle of fairness and justice.

She also spoke highly of the four global initiatives proposed by China and the establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization.

Wang said the decision of Rodrigues-Birkett to run for the post reflects her firm commitment to multilateralism and strong support for the cause of the UN.

Multilateralism is vital for small and medium-sized countries, Wang said.

He said China will take part in the selection of the next UN secretary-general in a responsible and constructive manner, and supports the selection of a secretary-general who will uphold the UN Charter, demonstrate outstanding competence, act with fairness and integrity, and shoulder responsibilities with commitment, in accordance with the UN Charter.