(March 25, 2022)

Mr. President,

I have the honor to speak on behalf of a group of countries. Democracy and human rights are a common pursuit of humanity. In the meantime, the world we live in is diverse and colorful, and diversity is a fundamental feature of human society. Countries with different histories, cultures and national conditions may choose different forms of democracy. The key to democracy in a country lies in whether its people are truly masters of their country and whether problems that its people face are solved.

The promotion and protection of democracy and human rights is the common responsibility of the international community and should not be used as a tool to exert pressure on other countries. Any country that abuses democratic values and interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states under the pretext of protecting democracy and human rights, that attempts to impose its political system and model of democracy on others is the opposite of democracy.

Democratization of international relations represents the trend of the times. States should advocate true democratic spirit, practice multilateralism, enhance consultations and cooperation, advance peace and development, better promote and protect human rights, and work together to cope with global challenges and create a better future.

Thank you, Mr. President.

China, Angola, Belarus, Bolivia, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Comoros, Congo, Cuba, DPRK, Eritrea, Iran, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Nicaragua, Palestine, Russian Federation, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Syria, Tajikistan, Venezuela, Yemen, Zimbabwe