This year marks the 30th anniversary of the development partnership between the United Nations and China. Since the establishment of the first UN country office in China in 1979, our presence has grown dramatically. Today, 22 UN agencies, funds, programs and offices with around 700 staff are at work across the country. We have forged a strong and fruitful partnership.

This month also marked the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. The Chinese people should be proud of their remarkable economic and social progress and unprecedented achievements in lifting people out of poverty. China has met several Millennium Development Goals and is on track to reach several more. I am pleased that the United Nations system has been a partner on this path.

Of course, many challenges remain. To achieve China's vision of a balanced, “Xiaokang” society, many disparities need to be bridged. The United Nations will continue to support you in that endeavour. We will also continue to strive to make our work more coherent and effective, and more responsive to national needs and development visions.

The world faces multiple crises that cry out for a renewed multilateralism. The international community must pool its resources and wisdom. We need to be more united than ever, in purpose and in action. And we need countries such as China, and people such as you, to engage with all their creativity and will.

Congratulations again on this anniversary. I wish China many more successes and accomplishments. And I look forward to working with you to build a better world for all.