China's FM meets Guyana's UN SG Candidate Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett

Guyana's candidate for the next United Nations Secretary-General, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, has met with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing as she continues her campaign for the UN's top post.

During Monday's meeting, Rodrigues-Birkett outlined her vision for a more agile, efficient and equitable United Nations, arguing that rising global conflicts, climate change and development challenges underscore the need for stronger multilateral cooperation.

She reaffirmed Guyana's support for the one-China principle and UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, while commending China's role in advancing the global development agenda and its proposals on international cooperation, including artificial intelligence governance.

Rodrigues-Birkett said that, if elected Secretary-General, she would pursue reforms aimed at strengthening the UN's effectiveness and placing sustainable development at the centre of the international agenda.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the UN-centred international system is facing unprecedented challenges and stressed that the organisation needs strong leadership to navigate growing global instability. He said Rodrigues-Birkett's candidacy reflects a firm commitment to multilateralism and support for the United Nations.

Wang also reaffirmed China's longstanding support for the UN, noting that Beijing would participate in the selection of the next Secretary-General in a responsible and constructive manner. He said China supports the appointment of a candidate who upholds the UN Charter, demonstrates competence, fairness and integrity, and is capable of restoring the organisation's authority and effectiveness.

The meeting forms part of Rodrigues-Birkett's international outreach as she seeks support from UN member states for her candidacy to succeed the current Secretary-General when his term concludes.