China's Vice Foreign Minister Calls for Multilateralism and Regional Cooperation at UN ESCAP Conference

China's Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu addressed the 82nd ministerial session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok, Thailand on April 20, 2026. In his speech, Ma emphasized that the world faces mounting instability and uncertainty amid rapid geopolitical shifts, with conflicts and tensions intensifying. He stressed that President Xi Jinping's four major global initiatives provide guidance for navigating these complex international circumstances.

Ma proposed four key recommendations for ESCAP member states: defending multilateralism and the rules-based international order centered on the United Nations; promoting open cooperation and regional economic integration through mechanisms such as RCEP and the proposed Asia-Pacific Free Trade Area; embracing digital innovation and technological advancement in artificial intelligence, new materials, and clean energy; and accelerating implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda with renewed commitment as the final five-year sprint begins. He noted that China has mobilized over $23 billion in funding for the Global Development Initiative and implemented more than 1,800 practical cooperation projects.

Ma highlighted China's economic performance and development priorities, noting that China's economy grew 5 percent in the first quarter of 2026, demonstrating strong resilience. He emphasized that the 15th Five-Year Plan, recently approved by China's National People's Congress, represents a new development roadmap that will generate opportunities for the Asia-Pacific region. China will continue expanding high-level opening-up and share development dividends with regional partners, he said.

Turning to institutional milestones, Ma announced that China will host the 83rd ESCAP session in Shanghai in April 2027 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the organization's founding. The original Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East was established in Shanghai in 1947. Ma expressed hope that hosting the conference would allow member states to revisit ESCAP's founding mission, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and make greater contributions to building an Asia-Pacific community.

During the conference, Ma met with ESCAP Executive Secretary Armando Tamagno. China's role as the 2026 APEC host was also referenced, with the country planning to convene the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Shenzhen in November 2026.