Kuben Chetty

AS A journalist from South Africa who has closely followed international affairs for many years, I am acutely aware of how difficult it can be to safeguard peace and promote global development.

From the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and other security challenges worldwide, to the economic and social issues facing numerous developing countries, the global call for “peace and development” is growing louder than ever.

At this critical juncture, China’s sense of responsibility as a major power—manifested in the proposals and initiatives it has put forth on several international hotspots—has increasingly drawn global attention. It also provides African journalists like myself with a broader lens through which to view the shifting geopolitical landscape.

From the Ukraine conflict to other international flashpoints, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has repeatedly issued statements and initiatives emphasising “respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations” and advocating for resolution of conflicts through “dialogue and negotiation.”

In recent press briefings and official documents, I have observed China urging all parties to remain calm and avoid escalating tensions. At the same time, it underscores the need for the international community to work together—on the basis of the UN Charter—to help parties in conflict return to the negotiating table.

This approach, which is both “principled” and “practical,” offers a fresh and more balanced framework for mediation. China’s call for a “political solution” and “direct dialogue” not only offers hope for de-escalating the regional situation but also provides the international community with a potentially workable roadmap for peace.

From South Africa’s vantage point, we have a deep understanding of the value of peace, dialogue, and negotiation. The history of our own continent has taught us that only through negotiation, dialogue, and international cooperation can we truly tackle longstanding issues and end cycles of turmoil and conflict. It is for these reasons that China’s steadfast commitment to resolving disputes peacefully has resonated with many African nations.

In global issues, China is also dedicated to promoting what it calls “genuine multilateralism.” Whether it is upholding international law and norms under the UN framework or proposing cooperative initiatives within the G20 or BRICS mechanisms, I have noted China’s persistent efforts to strengthen global governance and foster trust and interaction among nations.

What stands out particularly is China’s consistent emphasis on “mutual benefit” and “inclusive development.” As a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently put it: “The aspirations and voices of developing countries must be respected.”

This aligns closely with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which calls for “independent development and sustainable prosperity.” I hope that the global community will pay closer attention to the development priorities of Africa and grant developing countries a more prominent voice in shaping international governance.

Beyond its calls for dialogue and resolution in geopolitics and security, China has also been actively addressing critical global issues such as economic development, public health, and climate change.

Economic Cooperation: Through the Belt and Road Initiative and a variety of cooperative mechanisms with African nations, China provides considerable funding, technology, and human resources in areas such as infrastructure, energy, digital economies, and agricultural modernisation. These initiatives not only bring much-needed investment to African regions but also create local jobs and improve living conditions.
Public Health: During the global fight against the pandemic, China donated vaccines, protective equipment, and medical supplies to many countries in Africa and Asia—as well as other regions heavily impacted by the virus—and dispatched medical teams to provide technical assistance. For countries with limited healthcare resources, these steps have been crucial, demonstrating a spirit of humanitarianism and mutual support.
Climate Change: China has accumulated significant experience in developing renewable energy and promoting a green economic transition, signing related cooperation agreements with several African countries. At global climate summits, China’s green cooperation initiatives and sustainable development proposals offer a valuable blueprint for developing nations pursuing low-carbon growth, underscoring how collaboration can address climate challenges.

From the Ukrainian conflict to the global pandemic, and from climate change to development priorities, our world today is grappling with challenges of unprecedented scale and complexity. Yet based on China’s official statements and my own observations, I see that China consistently focuses on a “people-centered” approach and the ideal of “common development.” Whether by advocating negotiations to end conflict or promoting South-South cooperation in development, China’s efforts align with the aspirations of many developing countries for both security and prosperity.

For Africa, a stable and peaceful international environment not only means fewer external conflicts but also a broader opportunity to advance economic development and social stability. China’s initiatives and actions have not only been well-received across Africa but also reflect the broader global desire for a more multipolar world and a new model of international relations.

Observing from South Africa, I sense that China—by actively pushing for the peaceful resolution of conflicts, upholding genuine multilateralism, and strengthening ties with developing countries through economic cooperation and cultural exchange—has contributed meaningful and constructive proposals to the international community. Looking to the future, no single actor can address all the profound challenges our world faces; it is only through collaboration and mutually beneficial partnerships that the global community can break free from conflict and instability, and chart a path to collective prosperity.

In these turbulent times, China’s voice and actions are reassuring. I hope to see greater international collaboration, deeper ties between Africa and China, and stronger cooperation among developing countries. I also hope the world at large will adopt genuine equality, mutual trust, and open dialogue, working hand in hand toward a lasting peace and prosperity that benefits everyone.