China Assumes UN Security Council Presidency for May, Prioritizes Multilateralism, Middle East Peace, and African Stability

On May 1, 2026, China assumed the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council for the month. Ambassador Fu Cong, China's Permanent Representative to the UN, announced at a press conference that the Council would focus on three priorities: revitalizing the authority of the UN Charter and the role of the United Nations, advancing political solutions to Middle East conflicts, and supporting stability and development in African nations. Fu warned that the international situation has become increasingly turbulent, with rising conflicts and a multilateral system under severe strain, making it imperative to reaffirm the Charter's principles and prevent a return to the law of the jungle. The Security Council is scheduled to convene a high-level open debate on May 26 under the theme "Upholding the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter and Strengthening the UN-Centered International System."

On the Middle East, the Council will review the situations in Palestine-Israel, Syria, and Lebanon, urging all parties to exercise restraint, cease hostilities, and ensure full compliance with the Gaza ceasefire agreement. Regarding Africa, Fu called for increased humanitarian aid and development support, emphasizing African-led solutions to African challenges. He also stressed the urgency of maintaining the ceasefire and resuming US-Iran negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz. China last held the Council presidency over a year ago, and its stewardship is seen as a significant diplomatic effort to bolster multilateral cooperation amid growing global fragmentation.