During the UN General Assembly on Friday, the Chinese Prime Minister, representing Xi Jinping, cautioned that the world risks reverting to a “laws of the jungle” scenario and presented Xi’s “global governance initiative” as a potential remedy.
Without directly naming President Donald Trump or the United States as threats to China’s preferred world order, Li’s remarks criticized policies linked to some world leaders, addressing issues like tariffs and diplomatic interference instead. He highlighted two prominent conflicts discussed at this year’s assembly: Israel’s fight against Hamas and the ongoing conflict relating to Ukraine’s invasion by Russia, which is seen as an ally to China.
Li’s speech also reflected on the ethos behind China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), while outlining an unfavorable alternative for countries opposed to Chinese Communist governance.
“Solidarity elevates all,” Li stated. “The journey ahead might be tough, but if countries come together sincerely, our strengths can form a powerful force to face challenges.”
At the start of his address, Li commemorated the 80th anniversary of the UN General Assembly and the conclusion of World War II. He suggested that “peace and development are the core desires of people everywhere,” arguing that the current international order emerged from the ruins of fascism. In line with various speeches given at this assembly, he warned of the increasing fragility of peace, attributing this vulnerability to “one-sided mentalism and a Cold War mentality.” The Chinese government consistently refers to concerns around genocide involvement and practices like debt colonialism as “Cold War ideas.”
“The rules and order established over the past 80 years are facing significant challenges, with previously effective international systems now muddled,” Li claimed. “The issues arising from this are distressing.”
“If we’re back to a jungle law era, the weak become prey to the strong,” he cautioned.
Li denounced “acts of hegemony and bullying” as destabilizing forces but refrained from naming specific actors. These accusations could align with historical instances of intrusion into neighboring sovereign nations like Vietnam and the Philippines, or China’s claims in the South China Sea linked to Ukraine’s invasion.
His remarks about tariffs subtly pointed to President Trump’s recent shifts in US trade policy.
“The primary contributors to the global economic downturn are the increase in unilateral protectionist actions, like tariff hikes and barriers,” Li noted. “We need to collaborate to identify profit synergies, promote inclusive economic globalization, and support each other in a unified direction.”
Li offered “Chinese wisdom” as a solution for global challenges, outlining some of Xi Jinping’s philosophies. The initiative advocated for principles like sovereign equality, upholding international law, practicing multilateralism, and focusing on actionable steps.
In contrast, he said, “the idea of civilizational supremacy and rigid ideological circles only fosters further division and conflict.”
Li wrapped up his speech with a warning concerning climate issues and urged for the creation of a global AI governance organization.
