Wang Yi meets UN secretary-general candidate Rebeca Grynspan

BEIJING: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday met with Rebeca Grynspan, candidate for the next UN secretary-general, in Beijing.

Grynspan, secretary-general of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and former vice president of Costa Rica, outlined her vision for the future of the United Nations, saying the organization remains irreplaceable but must advance reforms to keep pace with the times.

She said the UN should place greater emphasis on peace, development and the future while fully playing its role as the center of the international system.

Reaffirming her commitment to the one-China principle, Grynspan praised China for consistently supporting multilateralism and the UN Charter. Grynspan said she looks forward to working with China and the international community to strengthen the authority of the United Nations and help build a shared future for humanity.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said Grynspan's remarks reflected a firm commitment to the UN cause, an unwavering pursuit of world peace and a deep understanding of the concerns and aspirations of Global South countries.

The United Nations is a century-defining undertaking built through the tremendous efforts of the international community, Wang pointed out.

Since the restoration of the lawful seat of the People's Republic of China in the United Nations 55 years ago, China has consistently been a supporter and builder of the UN cause, he noted.

Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) meets with Rebeca Grynspan, candidate for the next United Nations (UN) secretary-general, as well as the current secretary-general of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and former vice president of Costa Rica, in Beijing, China, June 16, 2026.

Wang recalled that China assumed the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council last month, during which he traveled to New York to chair a high-level Security Council meeting. The meeting delivered a unified message in support of multilateralism, adherence to the UN Charter and efforts to revitalize the authority of the United Nations, he said.

The post of UN secretary-general carries significant responsibilities and global influence, Wang said, adding that the next secretary-general should uphold the UN Charter, demonstrate outstanding competence, act with fairness and integrity, and shoulder responsibilities with commitment and resolve.

As a responsible major country and a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China will participate in the selection of the next UN secretary-general in a constructive manner, Wang noted.

He added that China stands ready to work with all parties to safeguard, revitalize and strengthen the United Nations.