On July 25, 2023 local time, Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Wang Yi put forward four proposals on strengthening cooperation among the Global South countries on the sidelines of the Meeting of BRICS National Security Advisers and High Representatives on National Security in Johannesburg.

Wang Yi said that independence is the defining political feature of the Global South, development and revitalization are the historical mission of the Global South, and fairness and justice are the common proposition of the Global South. As members of the Global South family and responsible members of the global village, all countries need to work together to shoulder their responsibility for world peace and common development.

First, eliminate conflicts and jointly build peace. It is necessary to advocate the concept of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, promote the establishment of a balanced, effective and sustainable security architecture, respect the legitimate security concerns of all countries, pursue political settlement of hotspot issues, and build a global community of security for all.

Second, reinvigorate vitality and promote development. It is necessary to place development at the center of the international agenda, further build international consensus on promoting development, and safeguard the legitimate development rights of developing countries. Efforts should be made to revitalize the global development partnership and foster new drivers for global development. Developed countries should be promoted to earnestly honor their aid commitments, to make sure more benefits of development reach people in all countries.

Third, be open and inclusive for common progress. It is necessary to carry forward the common values of humanity, advocate respect for the diversity of civilizations, and reject drawing ideological lines and bloc confrontation. It is necessary to support all countries in exploring development paths based on their own national conditions, respect the social system chosen by the people of each country, enhance exchanges and mutual learning on state governance, and work together to contribute to the progress of humanity.

Fourth, be united and discuss cooperation. It is necessary to advocate the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, oppose hegemonism and power politics, and support the United Nations in playing an active role in international affairs. Efforts should be made to increase the say and representation of the Global South countries in the new round of reforms of the global governance system, so as to safeguard common interests.

Wang Yi stressed that China is naturally a member of the Global South and will always be a member of the big family of developing countries. China is willing to work with the vast number of emerging markets and developing countries to promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and jointly build a community with a shared future for mankind.