The world is entering a new period of turbulence and transformation, with global governance at a fresh crossroads. At the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization Plus meeting, President Xi Jinping put forward the Global Governance Initiative, emphasizing the need to stay committed to international rule of law.

Staying committed to international rule of law is the fundamental safeguard for global governance. Yet reality is sobering: some countries champion a so-called rules-based order, but in practice adopt a selective approach to international law — using it when it suits their interests and discarding it when it does not. Such practices have fueled concerns over a "paralyzed" United Nations, a "failing" international law, and an "ineffective" multilateral system.

At the same time, global challenges such as climate change, energy security and cybersecurity continue to mount. In emerging domains, including the deep sea, polar regions, outer space and artificial intelligence, the absence of rules and law-based governance has increased risks. The urgency of strengthening international rule of law and improving global governance has never been more evident.

China's position is clear. The purposes and principles of the UN Charter are universally recognized basic norms of international relations. They must be upheld unwaveringly. In emerging areas, international rules should be formulated on the basis of extensive consensus. International law and rules must be applied equally and uniformly, without any double standards or imposition. The authority and solemnity of international law must be upheld. Major countries, in particular, must take the lead in advocating and defending international rule of law.

As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and the world's largest developing country, China has consistently respected and safeguarded the authority of the UN Charter and international law. China has joined nearly all universal intergovernmental organizations and more than 600 international conventions and amendments, firmly supporting the United Nations' central role in international affairs. China practices true multilateralism and actively contributes to the development of the international legal system.

Concrete actions speak louder than words. In May, the world's first intergovernmental organization dedicated to mediation — the International Organization for Mediation — was established in Hong Kong, creating a new platform for the peaceful settlement of international disputes.

To improve global governance of artificial intelligence, China has also proposed the Global AI Governance Initiative and advocated the establishment of a World AI Cooperation Organization, ensuring that AI develops for the good of humanity.

Step by step, China has demonstrated its commitment to deliver on its word and take action, adding fresh impetus to the rule of law in global governance.

Looking ahead, China will continue to uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, advance democracy and rule of law in international relations, and work with other countries to build a community with a shared future for humanity.

Xinhua