Xi Jinping Proposes "Global Security Initiative"...Respect for Sovereignty and Opposition to Unilateralism

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Ki-min Lee] On the 21st, Chinese President Xi Jinping presented a 'Global Security Initiative' based on his country's stance, which has been mentioned during the Ukraine war process, including opposition to unilateral sanctions.

In a virtual speech at the Boao Forum held in Hainan Province, southern China, President Xi said, "China wishes to propose a Global Security Initiative," mentioning the initiative's contents related to respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs, respect for the legitimate security concerns of all countries, opposition to Cold War mentality and unilateralism, and adherence to the principle of indivisible security.

He emphasized that differences and disputes between countries should be resolved peacefully through dialogue and negotiation, stating, "We oppose the application of double standards or the abuse of unilateral sanctions and extraterritorial jurisdiction (extending a country's laws beyond its borders)."

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, China has emphasized the 'principle of indivisible security' in the context of supporting Russia's opposition to NATO's eastward expansion.

Although President Xi did not mention specific plans or details for promoting this initiative, it appears to reaffirm China's position on the Ukraine war and also targets the United States, which pressures China by strengthening relations with allies in the Asia-Pacific region under the Indo-Pacific strategy.

He also stressed that extreme selfishness, decoupling and supply disruptions, extreme pressure tactics, and the formation of small groups are unacceptable.

President Xi proposed strengthening international cooperation on epidemic prevention, including COVID-19. He stated, "We must jointly protect the life and health of humanity," adding, "Humanity still has much hardship and effort ahead to thoroughly overcome COVID-19."

He also emphasized the need for economic recovery and the stability of global industrial and supply chains, saying, "Policy adjustments by some countries should not cause serious negative external effects."

He particularly stressed Asian cooperation and unity, saying, "Instead of a zero-sum game, dialogue and cooperation; instead of blockade and exclusion, openness and inclusiveness; instead of self-centeredness, exchanges and mutual benchmarking?these are the aspirations and spirit that Asia should rightfully have."

Meanwhile, Ban Ki-moon, former UN Secretary-General and chairman of the Boao Forum, reportedly expressed at a forum session on the 20th that while support and backing for Ukraine are necessary, it is inappropriate to divert funds created for climate change response to support Ukraine, according to Hong Kong media Phoenix Net.

The Boao Forum, held in Hainan Province, China, until the 22nd under the theme "COVID-19 and the World: Promoting Global Development and Building a Shared Future," includes virtual participation from leaders of Israel, Mongolia, Nepal, and the Philippines.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.