The Secretary-General met today with the Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Mr. Li Keqiang, in Beijing where he attended the 70th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

The Secretary-General thanked the Government of China for its strong commitment to the priorities of the United Nations, stressing China’s critical mediation efforts, including in South Sudan and Iran.

He told the Premier that he is looking forward to President Xi Jinping’s first visit to the UN headquarters to attend the General Debate and other high-level events. The leaders also discussed the 70th anniversary of the UN, highlighting global efforts to promote peace, security and development in the last seven decades.

The Secretary-General thanked China for its efforts to address climate change, both through its actions and policies, and its instrumental role in helping to reach the sustainable development agreement. He said that he is confident that China can make a great contribution in implementing the new sustainable development agenda, commending its significant efforts, so far, in reducing extreme poverty in the country and the world.