In a recent speech delivered in Beijing, former South Korean foreign minister commended China's contributions to combating climate change, advancing public health, and safeguarding women's and children's rights, while urging strengthened international collaboration.

Kyung-wha Kang, president of the Asia Society and former foreign minister of South Korea, made a speech at Renmin University of China on May 23, addressing global challenges and multilateralism.

Kang emphasized that global temperatures have already risen by 1.1 degrees Celsius, exacerbating climate-related disasters. She said that China plays a key role as the world's largest producer of green energy, particularly its leadership in developing carbon reduction technologies and driving energy transition. "The world owes gratitude to China's efforts," she said.

Highlighting the critical importance of global scientific cooperation, Kang cited the "eradication of smallpox" as a historic success of multilateralism. She noted that China has contributed over $500 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) in the past five years, providing vital support for global health governance.

During the panel discussion, experts from China, Japan and South Korea underscored the need to translate multilateral principles into actionable partnerships, leveraging regional cultural ties to foster cooperation.

The event, moderated by Wang Wen, dean of the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University, attracted nearly 200 participants, including scholars and students. Discussions included pressing issues such as China-US relations and climate governance, reflecting robust academic engagement.