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71st anniversary of the founding of People’s Republic of China

Statement by Mukhisa Kituyi, Secretary-General of UNCTAD

71st anniversary of the founding of People’s Republic of China

Virtual meeting
30 September 2020

On the occasion of the 71st National Day of the People’s Republic of China, I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations to the Chinese government and people from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.

Since its founding, especially since the reform and opening up in 1979, China has made historic achievements.

China's economy has developed rapidly and has become one of the largest and most dynamic markets in the world. It has lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty through rapid economic growth. Even in the face of the impact of the COVID-19, China's economy has achieved stable growth and demonstrated strong resilience.

China also plays an important role in global affairs and is an important participant in the cause of the United Nations, and a pillar of international cooperation and multilateralism.

China and UNCTAD maintain close cooperation in promoting sustainable development worldwide, especially in helping developing countries participate in globalization more effectively and benefit from it.

In the face of the impact of the COVID-19 and many global challenges such as climate change, the vision and aspirations of the sustainable development agenda are more important than ever.

I sincerely hope that China will make greater achievements in social and economic development and make greater contributions in addressing global challenges.