摘要：Chinese President Xi Jinping attends a virtual BRICS summit and delivers an important speech in Beijing, September 8, 2025. [Photo

Chinese President Xi Jinping attends a virtual BRICS summit and delivers an important speech in Beijing, September 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

By Chen Guifang

During a virtual BRICS summit on September 8, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated a key point: His recently proposed Global Governance Initiative (GGI) aims to galvanize collective global action for a more just and equitable global governance system.

Xi stressed the importance of upholding multilateralism and increasing the representation and voice of Global South countries. He said that reforming the global governance system is essential to fully mobilize resources from all nations and more effectively address the common challenges facing humanity.

These points were met with high praise from the leaders and representatives of the participating countries: Russia, South Africa, Egypt, Iran, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, India, and Ethiopia, as well as the host country, Brazil. They agreed that the GGI is highly relevant and offers a clear direction and path for improving global governance.

This support follows the GGI's rapid welcome and endorsement by dozens of countries, including Malaysia, Slovakia, Nicaragua, Cuba and Nepal, as well as international bodies like the United Nations, shortly after its official proposal by Xi at the "Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Plus" meeting in north China's port city of Tianjin on September 1.

Its widespread approval underscores the GGI's appeal, as it aligns with the shared aspirations of the international community, especially the Global South, whose collective rise is evidenced by the growing influence of organizations like the SCO and BRICS.

The China-proposed initiative is gaining traction in the Global South because it directly addresses what many developing nations and emerging economies see as the fundamental flaws of the current Western-led international system and champions principles that resonate deeply with countries that have long felt marginalized and underrepresented on the world stage.

Everyone is at the table: A call for a multipolar world

At its core, the GGI is China's answer to the global governance deficit, characterized by frequent regional conflicts, slowing economic growth, a backlash against globalization, and the rise of hegemony and unilateralism.

The GGI points the way forward. Xi has outlined five core concepts that guide the initiative: Adhere to sovereign equality, abide by the international rule of law, practice multilateralism, advocate for a people-centered approach, and focus on taking real actions.

The principle of sovereign equality is paramount. The GGI holds that every nation, regardless of size, strength, or wealth, deserves an equal voice and stake in global affairs. This directly counters the status quo, where a few powerful nations have historically monopolized decision-making.

For the Global South, the prospect of true equality in international participation is incredibly appealing. The idea that "everyone is at the table" in decision-making is a powerful counter-narrative to a system where some countries are brutally placed on the menu.

The GGI also champions multilateralism, not as a system dictated by a few, but as a process of extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit. This means that global affairs should be discussed and decided by all, rejecting unilateralism, bullying and power politics. The approach aligns perfectly with the Global South's desire for a more democratic and inclusive international order.

As a key member of the Global South, China is actively committed to fostering solidarity and a more balanced global order. It is not just rhetoric; it is reflected in China's concrete actions. For instance, China actively advocates for enhancing the representation and voice of developing nations. On the issue of UN Security Council reform, China backs special arrangements to prioritize Africa's demands and supports the African Union's admission into the Group of 20.

This widespread support for the GGI, therefore, is no coincidence. It is the result of China's consistent actions on the global stage and showcases its responsibility as a major country. By promoting a vision of global governance that is more just and equitable, China has positioned the Global Governance Initiative as another public good for the world.

Chen Guifang is a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN.

来源：中国网一点号