中文
By Bobby Naderi
The 79th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York was a valuable platform for world leaders to explore conflict resolution strategies. Regrettably, some biased speakers used this opportunity to criticize China's policies instead. In some strange fashion, since the scheme had a familiar ring, it is necessary to examine these concerns within the full context of international norms in order to present a balanced view. This approach may also help dispel any false narratives in the age of information.
Addressing the annual meeting, China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, reiterated Beijing's position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, urging other countries not to exploit the situation for selfish purposes. The Taiwan region also came into prominence when he reiterated China's stance on Taiwan as an inalienable part of the country, ruling out any possibilities of "Taiwan independence." He then defended China's human rights record, stressing that the path of human rights development reflects national conditions.
On other global issues, Wang came out in support of Palestinian statehood and the two-state solution; on the Korean Peninsula, he underlined peace while warning against external interference. He further stressed the importance of dialogue over confrontation, urging countries to avoid inciting conflicts, particularly in Asia.
It is particularly on target to say that these key points are more than enough to reflect Beijing's broader diplomatic strategy and vision for promoting dialogue and bridging divides.
Building a culture of transparency
While human rights are universal, the ways in which they are promoted must take into account local contexts to prevent alienating the very populations they aim to assist. China's policies and practices in places like Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region are purely internal matters of its sovereignty. In the principle of non-interference, the UN Charter does provide that China is free to handle its internal affairs without any form of interference from others.
China's policies in Xinjiang have helped combat extremism and promote stability, which are legitimate state interests. Furthermore, the measures taken in Hong Kong are in line with the "one country, two systems" framework, which is internationally recognized. Interference in such matters, especially through economic sanctions or political pressure, may only result in economic and social disruption.
Into the argument, the positions of China in the South China Sea find their basis in historical rights and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). In conformity with UNCLOS, China's actions, including the artificial island building, are within its sovereign rights to make sure that regional navigation and overflight are free.
The critics are free to criticize the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for its alleged debt dependency and unfair trade practices, or raise bogus concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability. However, they cannot change the fact that the BRI has been, and still is, a mutual benefit and economic cooperation development undertaking.
One of the reasons false narratives have failed to gain traction at the UN is that the initiative has promoted infrastructure, trade and investment in countries involved. More importantly, many countries have joined the BRI voluntarily, which clearly shows that they have recognized its potential benefits for economic growth, job creation, improvement in connectivity, and poverty reduction.
A global stake in cooperation
In an era where information is accessible at the swipe of a screen, the proliferation of false narratives at the UN is a threat to all nations. China has time and again showcased its commitments towards multilateralism and a rules-based international order. The view which the country creates regarding international governance is one that complements the existing structures, rather than undermining them.
China's growing influence will continue to present enormous opportunities to the world, benefiting one and all through stronger relations. Economically, China, as the world's second largest economy, remains deeply integrated into global supply chains. Strong trade relations ensure economic stability, boost growth, and maintain the smooth flow of goods and services, benefiting both China and other nations.
In today's interconnected world, few countries hold as much influence across environmental, scientific and diplomatic circles as China. China's domestic and international policies carry significant impact on most, if not all, global matters. Fostering good relations with the Asian giant stands to benefit not only individual countries but also the entire global community, particularly in key areas such as trade, environmental sustainability, technological innovation and multilateral diplomacy.
There are legitimate questions about those who are trying to slander China. Building stronger relations with China is not just about tapping into the opportunities of a rising global power, it is also about refraining from creating false narratives that distort reality, sow division and undermine trust in global institutions.
The proof is in the pudding. With shared goals in global matters, many nations have gained immensely from stronger engagement with China and its influential role in shaping the future of international trade, politics and culture. Rather than viewing China's rise as a challenge, they have recognized the potential for collaboration and mutual benefit.
Bobby Naderi is a London-based journalist, guest contributor in print, radio and television, and documentary filmmaker.
