Executive Summary
The Story So Far
Why This Matters
Who Thinks What?
Chinese Premier Li Qiang addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, advocating for multilateral values and a stable global order while delivering pointed critiques against what he described as US isolationism and protectionist trade policies. Without directly naming President Donald Trump, Li urged the international body to embrace reforms reflecting Beijing’s development model, emphasizing solidarity and universally beneficial economic globalization.
China’s Vision for Global Order
In his remarks, Premier Li asserted that “solidarity lifts everyone up,” drawing a stark contrast to a world where “might dictates right.” He warned that a return to a “Law of the Jungle” mentality, where the weak are preyed upon by the strong, would lead to heightened global division, regression, and “even more bloodshed and brutality.”
The premier specifically criticized policies he characterized as unilateral and protectionist, such as tariff hikes and the “erection of walls and barriers.” These comments were widely interpreted as a direct rebuke of President Trump’s “America first” trade agenda, which has impacted numerous countries globally.
Advocating for Economic Globalisation
Li suggested that nations should collaborate more closely to “circumvent Washington” and address current global economic doldrums. He called for identifying and expanding common interests to foster “universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation,” urging nations to “help each other succeed by moving forward in the same direction.”
Historical Context and Future Direction
Drawing parallels to the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Premier Li highlighted the subsequent era of relative peace and economic prosperity. He attributed this stability to adherence to global rules and collective international action, underscoring China’s commitment to upholding these principles.
Premier Li’s address underscored China’s commitment to a global vision rooted in multilateralism and collective action. He positioned Beijing as an advocate for an inclusive and stable international economic order, contrasting it with what it perceives as growing unilateralism and protectionism in global affairs.
