China calls for new global governance, positions itself as designer of multipolar order

China is positioning itself as a key architect of a new global governance system, urging the world to move beyond the traditional center-periphery structure of international relations. The call was made during a press conference on June 17, 2026, announcing the release of a white paper titled 'Building a Fairer and More Rational Global Governance System: China's Vision, Proposals, and Actions.'

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We must move beyond the center-periphery structure of traditional international relations theory.

During the press conference, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized that the "Global Governance Initiative" has established a comprehensive framework across four dimensions: development, security, civilization, and governance. He advocated for a new path that promotes equality and rule of law in international relations, guided by principles of consultation, co-construction, and shared benefits. Wang explicitly stated the need to transcend the "center-periphery structure of traditional international relations theory."

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We must abandon the jungle law where might makes right.

Implicitly criticizing the United States, Wang Yi called for abandoning the "jungle law" where "might makes right." While the white paper did not name specific countries, it listed unilateralism, hegemony, anti-globalization, and protectionism – concepts often associated with U.S. foreign policy – as practices that should be rejected. The paper argued that power alone should not dictate decisions in international affairs.

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The reason multilateralism appears not to be working properly is not that the UN is not important, but that the UN's authority and status have not been sufficiently respected.

The white paper also reaffirmed China's support for a UN-centered international order. Wang argued that the perceived ineffectiveness of multilateralism stems not from the UN's lack of importance, but from insufficient respect for its authority. He stressed adherence to the UN Charter, principles of sovereign equality, and international law, while opposing unilateral actions that bypass the Security Council. China also called for reforms to increase the representation and voice of developing countries within the UN.

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We must oppose unilateral actions that bypass the Security Council.