UNITED NATIONS, July 14 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Tuesday called for the promotion of multilateralism and international cooperation for the sake of sustainable development.

The world is undergoing major changes unseen in 100 years, Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, told the UN High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development.

Globalization has contributed greatly to the development of the world economy and material prosperity. Scientific and technological progress has been pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and activity. The collective rise of emerging markets and developing countries has changed the international political and economic landscape. Meanwhile, unilateralism, bullying, protectionism and anti-globalization sentiments are eroding the very foundation of multilateralism and worsening the environment of international development cooperation. COVID-19 is having a devastating impact on economic and social development, said Zhang.

In the face of the grave and complex situation, it is more important than ever to achieve common development and accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, he said.

All parties should effectively combat COVID-19, promote sustainable and inclusive economic recovery and growth, and accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda with confidence, resolve and intensified efforts, he said.

Zhang asked for the strengthening of solidarity and cooperation to jointly tide over the difficulties.

As the United Nations is marking its 75th anniversary, the international community should firmly uphold multilateralism, abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, support the United Nations' central role in international affairs, and oppose all forms of unilateralism and protectionism, he said.

It has been proven that solidarity and cooperation is the most powerful weapon for humankind to tackle global challenges. There is no exception for implementing the 2030 Agenda. Countries need to work in solidarity toward a community with a shared future. That is the only way to overcome the difficulties and achieve common development, said Zhang.

He asked countries to prioritize development.

Development is the master key to solving all problems. The international community should prioritize development in global macroeconomic policy coordination, and increase investment in development to give sustained impetus to the cause of international development, he said.

"We must put people at the center of our efforts, and focus on major goals and targets of sustainable development, including poverty reduction, hunger eradication, health, education, employment and infrastructure, to ensure and enhance the well-being of the people. Special attention should be given to the difficulties and challenges of developing countries in the midst of COVID-19 to help them recover better and faster," Zhang said. Enditem

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