China remains a strong advocate of the free trade system, with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, and is committed to supporting reforms within the international organization, stated Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday.
Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made these remarks during a meeting with WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest economic center.
He emphasized China’s dedication to genuine multilateralism, upholding the international system led by the United Nations (UN) and the free trade framework centered around the WTO. Despite rising unilateralism and protectionist policies, he asserted that economic globalization is an unstoppable trend, urging all parties to work together to advance trade liberalization and global economic recovery.
China will continue to support the director-general in pushing forward WTO reforms, ensuring that the concerns of Global South nations are heard, and aligning WTO policies with global progress, Wang added.
While maintaining its status as a developing country, China does not shy away from its international responsibilities, he said, pledging to fulfill obligations and showcase China’s role as a responsible global power.
Okonjo-Iweala, in response, praised China for making significant progress despite global challenges. She highlighted China’s success in achieving the UN’s poverty reduction goals ahead of schedule, accelerating industrialization, and advancing education, making it a model for other developing nations.
The WTO appreciates China’s commitment to resolving trade disputes through diplomatic dialogue and multilateral mechanisms, she said, expressing hope for continued Chinese support in advancing WTO reforms.
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