Remarks by H.E. Ambassador CHEN Xu at the 8thMeeting of Friends of UNITAR
2021-09-08 13:36

Mr. Nikhil Seth,

Co-Chairs,

Dear colleagues,

Very glad to join today’s discussion. As is known to all, success comes from perseverance, with which the Friends of UNITAR hassuccessfully heldannualmeetings for 8 consecutive years since its establishment, with which UNITAR consistently reaches out to relevant parties against the backdrop of COVID-19. I’d like to take this opportunity to convey my heartfelt congratulations and sincere appreciation.

At this unusual time in human history, we are confronted with common challenges including the pandemic, economic slowdown and climate change, it is more important than ever for us to uphold solidarity, multilateralism and the UN-centered international system. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, UNITAR upholds its basic mission of building capacity for the benefit of most vulnerable people and nations, conducts a number of activities under the four Pillars of Peace, People, Planet and Prosperity for the purpose of accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and promoting multilateral diplomacy. China highly appreciates UNITAR’s efforts and its unique contribution to global fight against the pandemic, which serves as a sound example of global solidarity and cooperation.

As a dedicated training arm of the UN, UNITAR plays an uniquerole in upholding multilateralism and promoting international cooperation. Toachieve a better future for UNITAR, I would like to share a few points:

Firstly, more tailored. To better servethe needsof different countries and achieve policy coherence, it is suggested to enhance communication and coordination with both Permanent Missions in Geneva and line ministries in the capital; to prioritize projects conducive to economic recovery and social development; and to build the brand of pilot training programs, including multi-diplomacy program.

Secondly, more inclusive. Make full use of the global network of CIFAL, extend partnership with multilateral development institutions, soas to scale up the scope, outputs, and beneficiaries of projects.

Thirdly, more forward-looking. To grow into an international training and research centre, it is advisable to make full use of valuable opportunities deriving from world economic recovery, in particular tap on rising demand for capacity building by developing countries in the post-pandemic era, and champion the design and implementation of on-line, off-line, hybrid and multi-mode projects in support of bridging digital divide and development gap.

Dear colleagues,

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the lawful seat of the People's Republic of China in the UN. As a strong supporter and practitioner to multilateralism, China has been actively participating in UN affairs over the past 50 years. China and UNITAR enjoy long-term and sound cooperation. With reinforced communication and coordination,recent years witness our partnership grow from strength to strength. Many Chinese universities and institutions conducted cooperation programs in diverse forms with UNITAR. China made a voluntary annual contribution to UNITAR in support of capacity building activities in developing countries.

To conclude, China is ready to work with UNITAR and all parties to deepen and solidify our cooperation and make a greater contribution to world peace and development.