China calls for unity, cooperation under multilateralism: FM

BEIJING, March 7 (Xinhua) -- The right way forward lies in greater solidarity and cooperation under the banner of multilateralism and joint efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Monday.

Wang made the remarks in response to growing concerns that the world is facing risks about division and confrontation, and the potential for a new Cold War.

First and foremost, peace must be preserved, the foreign minister said at a press conference.

Countries need to follow the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, and stay committed to ceasing conflicts through negotiation, resolving disputes through dialogue, and increasing mutual trust through cooperation, so as to jointly build a world of enduring peace, Wang said.

Highlighting the importance of solidarity, Wang said that diversity is what makes the world a beautiful place, and differences should not become a cause for confrontation.

Stressing the need to uphold openness, Wang said economic globalization is the trend of the times.

"We must say no to all forms of protectionism and isolationism, and firmly uphold a free, fair and non-discriminatory multilateral trading system. We should tear down small yards with high fences and build open markets instead," he added.

Wang called on the world to strengthen cooperation, and enhance communication and coordination on fighting COVID-19 and terrorism and coping with climate change, cybersecurity and other global issues.

"In a world of instability and transformation, China always serves as an anchor for stability and a force of positive energy, and always stands on the right side of history," Wang added.