On April 20, 2026, Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu attended and addressed the ministerial segment of the 82nd Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok, Thailand.

Ma Zhaoxu stated that the world is undergoing rapid changes unseen in a century, with increasing uncertainties and destabilizing factors, posing serious challenges to world peace and development. President Xi Jinping has put forward four global initiatives, charting the course for addressing the turbulent and complex international situation. Member states of ESCAP should uphold multilateralism, promote open cooperation, advance the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and foster development and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region. China stands ready to strengthen cooperation with ESCAP to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and implement the Global Development Initiative. This year marks the beginning of the 15th Five-Year Plan period in China. The Chinese economy has made steady progress and demonstrated strong resilience and vitality. China will continue to expand high-standard opening up and share its dividends with all countries in the world, especially those in the Asia-Pacific region.

Ma Zhaoxu noted that next year will mark the 80th anniversary of the establishment of ESCAP. China stands ready to host the 83rd Session of the Commission in Shanghai, the birthplace of ESCAP, in April 2027. China hopes to take this opportunity to work with other member states to review the founding mission, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and make greater contributions to building an Asia-Pacific community.

During the session, Ma Zhaoxu met with Executive Secretary of ESCAP Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana.