Chinese president arrives in New York for UN summit

Chinese President Hu Jintao (L) and his wife, Liu Yongqing, arrive in New York, Sept 13, 2005. Hu Jintao flied to New York to attend the United Nations summit marking the 60th anniversary of the founding of the world body.

Chinese President Hu Jintao arrived in New York Tuesday from Mexico City to attend the United Nations summit scheduled for September 14-16.

The Chinese leader has just concluded a state visit to Mexico. Prior to that, he visited Canada.

The UN summit, to be held at the United Nations headquarters in New York, is expected to bring together 180 heads of state and government, the largest gathering of world leaders in history.

The leaders will make decisions regarding development, security, human rights and the reform of the United Nations.

The summit is expected to have a vital influence on the future of the United Nations and international relations, analysts said.

At the summit meeting, the Chinese president will deliver a speech to expound China's views and stance on the current international situation and major international issues, and put forward specific proposals on issues including the UN reform and international cooperation.

In an interview last month, Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing said that Hu's attendance at the UN summit demonstrates China's support to the United Nations and will be conducive to closer China-UN cooperation.

Li said China hopes the summit will have positive results, which should include reiterating the commitments to the spirit and principles enshrined in the UN Charter, safeguarding the UN authority, promoting the settlement of issues regarding development and implementing the Millennium Development Goals.

China also hopes the summit will enhance the UN's capability to cope with threats and challenges through active and prudent reforms, promote multi-lateralism and help boost the sound and harmonious development of international relations, he said.

Source: Xinhua