On May 7, Ambassador Chen Xu delivered a keynote speech at the Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations as part of the Emerging Issues and Persistent Challenges Seminar Series. Speaking on the topic of Challenges to Multilateralism and China’s Approach, Ambassador Chen addressed an audience of over 100 participants, including the Dean Dr. Athar Sultan-Khan, faculty members, students, and think tank scholars.
Ambassador Chen pointed out that the current international landscape is complex, with rising unilateralism and protectionism posing severe challenges to the global governance system. The world stands at a new crossroads. Multilateralism remains the only viable path to address global issues. However, in recent years, certain country have imposed unilateral tariffs and withdrawn from international agreements, severely undermining global confidence in multilateral cooperation.
As for the upcoming China-US talks in Geneva, Chen pointed out that it is important for the US side to take the right approach and mindset, conduct the talks on the basis of equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit, instead of using the tactics of pressuring and coercing.
Chen noted that China has consistently upheld the international system with the United Nations at its core, taking on new responsibilities and making concrete contributions. As the UN marks its 80th anniversary, China calls on all parties to get united in advancing the common cause of building a community with a shared future for mankind.
Ambassador Chen also responded to questions from the moderator and audience on topics including US unilateral tariffs, US withdrawal from multilateral organizations, rebuilding international trust, and his experience as a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). The speech was warmly received. Faculty and students expressed that the event deepened their understanding of China’s diplomacy and perspectives on a multipolar world, and many expressed a strong interest in visiting China in the future.
