China demands broad consensus in UN reform
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2005-05-16 22:12

China proposed broad consensus be reached on the United Nations reform by deepening negotiations on controversial issues, said Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan Monday in Beijing.

Tang warned the lack of consensus could hinder the reform of other issues as well as the preparation for the UN summit slated for September this year. Tang made the remarks while meeting with Ali Alatas, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan's special envoy.

Alatas, also former Indonesia's foreign minister, is here for atwo-day visit to coordinate the views of Asian countries with respect to the Secretary General's report on the proposed UN reform.

Alatas is one of the five envoys Annan named to assist in promoting the comprehensive reform agenda for the UN summit slated for September this year.

Citing the 60th anniversary of the UN this year, Tang said all the member states should seize the opportunity to push forward the UN reform to make headway in the development issue.

UN reform should be practical and gradual, said Tang, adding that China has been supporting and positively promoting the reform in view of the increasing global threats and challenges facing the world.

Alatas agreed the UN should attach greater importance to the development issue through reform and extensive consensus should be reached on the reform agenda. China, as an influential country, should further play its role in the UN reform, he said.