BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- A senior Chinese diplomat on Friday called for strengthening, not weakening, the role of the United Nations (UN), saying reforms are needed to help the world body tackle global challenges.
"Recent years have repeatedly reminded us through major crises that the UN's role must be strengthened, not diminished. Its status must be upheld, not replaced," Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu told a press conference.
He said the UN's effectiveness depends on member states upholding the UN Charter and observing international law and the basic norms governing international relations.
Ma added that reforms are needed to help the organization better respond to global challenges, especially by boosting the representation and voice of developing countries in international affairs. ■