According to spokesman Guo Jiakun, Beijing took note of the regret expressed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) and by many nations about this decision.

He recalled that this would be the third time that the United States has left the organization, in addition to accumulating a prolonged delay in the payment of its dues.

Guo stressed that Unesco’s mission is to promote international cooperation in education, science and culture, to foster understanding among civilizations and to contribute to world peace and joint development.

In this framework, he reiterated China’s firm and constant support for the work of the organization and underlined its essential role in the multilateral system.

“On the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, we urge all countries to reaffirm their commitment to multilateralism, to support with deeds the UN-centered international system, the international order based on international law and the fundamental norms of international relations inspired by the UN Charter,” he added.

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