The 35th anniversary of the restoration of China's seat in the
United Nations was celebrated in the Great Hall of the People last
night, with recollections of the nation's commitments and
contributions to world peace and development since 1971.
Addressing the reception, State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan said the
past 35 years had shown that China, as a permanent member of the UN
Security Council, was an important force for global peace common
development. "We are proud of this role," he added.
"Acting in a responsible and constructive way, China has taken
an active role in resolving issues in regional hot spots and in
working out effective responses to today's unconventional security
threats," Tang said.
He reiterated the nation's call for the peaceful settlement of
international disputes through dialogue, and its opposition to the
needless exertion of pressure, threats or the use of force.
He also pledged that China will play a more active role in UN
peace keeping operations, bringing hope to the people of countries
plagued by conflict and restoring peace.
Tang said China's priority in the UN would be to continue
supporting the promotion of international human rights and
addressing the needs of developing countries, particularly in
Africa.
He also restated China's determination to uphold its sovereignty
and territorial integrity, while continuing to work towards
national reunification.
"(The international support for reunification) is demonstrated
in the fact that the UN General Assembly has for 14 times refused
to put the so-called Taiwan's participation in the UN on its
agenda," he said.
Hosted by Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing, the reception was
attended by about 400 foreign ministry officials, foreign diplomats
and media representatives.
(China Daily October 26, 2006)
