President Xi Jinping announced Wednesday that China will provide 200 million yuan ($29.18 million) of humanitarian assistance to help refugees and the homeless in the Syrian crisis.

Xi made the remarks at a keynote speech at the United Nations' Geneva headquarters.

The world is facing lots of uncertainties, Xi said, adding that the people are expecting a brighter future but at the same time being frustrated by the current situation. China's resolution to safeguard world peace will not be changed, he said.

"When our neighbors are in difficulties, we should offer a hand rather than just tighten our fences," he said.

All countries should be treated equally, no matter big or small, he said, adding that none of the countries should stage wars willfully. Cultural differences should not become the root for conflicts, but the engine for mankind's progress, he added.

Nuclear weapons should be banned completely and destroyed to establish a nuclear-free world, Xi said.

During his speech, Xi called on big powers to manage disputes and respect each others' core interests. The deep sea and aerospace should be new fields for cooperation rather than an arena for competition, he said.

Trade protectionism could harm both sides, and it should be opposed, Xi said while calling on open and inclusive trade under the rules of the World Trade Organization.

anbaijie@chinadaily.com.cn