Friday, 19 April 2024
Your Excellency, Fu Cong, Permanent Representative of the People’s Republic of China to the United Nations,
Mr. Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs,
Mr. Movses Abelian, Under-Secretary-General for General Assembly and Conference Management,
Ms. Han Liming, Member of Standing Committee of CPC Jiangsu Provincial Committee and Secretary of CPC Nanjing Municipal Committee,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Let me express gratitude for the kind invitation to join you today in celebration of the fifteenth UN Chinese Language Day.
Language is not merely a means of communication; – it is also a bridge connecting people, and civilization cultures, thus enriching our life-experience.
With over 7,000 languages spoken worldwide, each is a testament of the diversity and richness of humanity.
Celebrating our languages is, therefore, as much about celebrating cultural identity as it is about celebrating our diversity; Languages foster mutual respect, understanding, and peace among peoples cultures and nations.
The Chinese language – one of the UN’s six official languages and spoken by nearly one-fifth of the world’s population – is a large and essential component of our human heritage; and has been so for millennia.
It is, therefore, fitting to acknowledge and appreciate this beautiful and vastly spoken language.
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Today, we celebrate the richness of Chinese culture and heritage – embodied in the intricate beauty of Chinese characters.
These characters tell a story of five millennia; of civilization – a journey marked by creation, connection, and harmony.
As we celebrate Chinese Language Day, we also honour the legacy of Cangjie – the legendary inventor of Chinese characters, whose genius and innovative spirit continues to endure and to inspire us.
During my visit to China in January of this year, I had the opportunity of trying my hand at calligraphy.
With the help of the children at the National Children Centre – I wrote the Chinese Character “Fu” – which means “happiness”. For me observing the discipline and creative spirit of the children was indeed a moment of great happiness and hope.
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With its deep-rooted commitment to the multilateral formula drawing upon its ancient philosophy of seeking harmony and coexistence, China stands at the forefront of cooperative global action to mobilize a new dynamism for multilateralism, as a vehicle for resolving existing global challenges.
From advocating international peace and security to promoting sustainable development, China’s contributions resonate across continents.
As we navigate the complexities of the seventy-eighth session, let us all – rally in pursuit of a better future for all.
I take this opportunity to pay a special tribute to our UN interpreters – who tirelessly work in real-time, to ensure that the voices of Member States and stakeholders resonate with 1.5 billion Chinese speakers worldwide.
Not only are they facilitating today’s event – but, alongside their colleagues, the Chinese interpreters also play a pivotal role in preserving cultural heritage and enhancing the accessibility and inclusivity of the UN’s work.
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Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
In conclusion – on this auspicious occasion – I extend my sincere gratitude to the Chinese Mission and all those who have contributed to the marking of Chinese Language Day.
Together, let us continue to embrace diversity, preserve culture, recognize and respect each other’s identities and build a world founded on equality, non-discrimination, mutual respect and cooperation.
“中文日快乐” (Zhōngwén Rì Kuàilè, pronounced: jong-when ree ku-eye-luh). Happy Chinese Language Day.
I thank you.