1st LD-Writethru: Global South key driver of multipolarity in world: Chinese FM

BEIJING, March 8 (Xinhua) -- The Global South has become a key driver of multipolarity in the world, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Sunday.

The collective rise of the Global South is the distinct hallmark of the great transformation unfolding in the world, with the share of the Global South in the world economy having grown from 24 percent to over 40 percent over the past 40 years, Wang told a press conference on the sidelines of the ongoing session of the national legislature.

At a time when hegemonism and power politics are asserting themselves and dealing a heavy blow to the international order, the Global South countries should increase communication and coordination, jointly defend their legitimate rights and interests, and work together to expand the space for independent development, Wang said.

He pointed out that the Global South is an emerging, positive force for good on the international stage.

"In a changing and more turbulent world, we should forge greater confidence and unity, pull together and jointly champion peace, development, cooperation and win-win outcomes," he said.

"China's heart is with the Global South, and China's root is in the Global South," Wang affirmed, expressing China's readiness to join hands with other Global South countries on the journey toward modernization and the building of a community with a shared future for humanity. Enditem