UN must resolutely defend victorious outcomes of World War II: Chinese envoy

The UN must resolutely defend the victorious outcomes of World War II and reject any attempt to revive militarism, said China's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Sun Lei on Thursday. 

Sun made the remarks to the UN General Assembly (UNGA), following UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres who addressed the meeting on priorities for 2026.

Guterres emphasized the three principles that guide the world body's work in 2026: adherence to the UN Charter, peace with justice -- peace between nations and peace with nature, and unity in an age of division.

All nations must resolutely uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, said Sun.

"The UN must resolutely defend the victorious outcomes of World War II and uphold the post-war international order, firmly oppose unilateralism and hegemony, and reject any attempt to revive militarism," he said.

The Chinese envoy said countries must advance the three pillars in a balanced manner.

"Peace and security, development, and human rights are mutually reinforcing, and none should be neglected," he said.

He also stressed reforming and improving global governance. 

"China will work with all parties to firmly support multilateralism and the international system with the UN at its core, maintain peace, promote development, and advance the building of a community with a shared future for humanity," said Sun.

UN must resolutely defend victorious outcomes of World War II: Chinese envoy

UN must resolutely defend victorious outcomes of World War II: Chinese envoy

UN must resolutely defend victorious outcomes of World War II: Chinese envoy

The China Media Group (CMG) held the first rehearsal for the 2026 Spring Festival Gala on Saturday, fine-tuning the highly anticipated TV event amid the festive atmosphere of the traditional Chinese New Year.

The rehearsal seamlessly integrated innovative technologies with vibrant stage visuals, offering a first glimpse of the gala's overall impact under the theme "Galloping Steed, Onward Unstoppable.”

Inspired by traditional Chinese culture, the Year of the Horse gala incorporates zodiac themes that symbolize perseverance and progress. The production merges art and technology, using AI, AR, and XR to create immersive, blended-reality visuals. Horse-themed artistic installations shape a dynamic stage, while original songs and opera pieces convey the spirited ethos of the zodiac year.

Robots, which made their debut in last year's gala, will once again take the stage at the Spring Festival Gala, showcasing the country's technological advancements.

Known as "Chunwan" in Chinese, the gala has been broadcast live annually since 1983 and is regarded as a major cultural symbol for the Chinese New Year celebrations in China. This year's gala will air on Feb 16, the eve of the Chinese New Year.

The gala has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the most-watched annual television program worldwide. Just over a year ago, the Spring Festival itself was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

CMG holds first rehearsal for 2026 Spring Festival Gala