In a strongly worded address at the United Nations Security Council, China’s Permanent Representative Fu Cong emphasized that every nation holds absolute sovereignty over its natural resources. Speaking during an open debate on ‘Energy, Critical Minerals, and Security’ on March 5, Fu asserted that international law clearly grants countries the primary responsibility for managing their own resources.
‘All countries enjoy full sovereignty over their resources and bear primary responsibility for their governance,’ Fu declared. He urged the global community to honor this principle without exception, amid rising tensions over energy transitions and critical mineral supplies.
Fu highlighted the rapid shifts in the global energy landscape, driven by emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and surging demand for key minerals. As geopolitical uncertainties mount, supply chain disruptions are intensifying, threatening economic stability worldwide. He called for unified international efforts to build resilient supply and industrial chains that support sustainable global growth.
Stressing the need for a stable environment, Fu pointed to alarming developments in the Middle East, where escalating conflicts risk further destabilizing global markets. China appeals to all parties to halt military actions immediately, de-escalate tensions, and prevent broader economic fallout.
Turning to Africa and other resource-rich regions, Fu advocated collective support to tackle persistent issues like mineral-related conflicts, illegal mining, smuggling, and armed insurgencies fueled by resource exploitation. ‘The international community must work together with African nations to address these root causes,’ he said, pushing for cooperative solutions over coercive interventions.
Fu’s remarks underscore China’s commitment to a multipolar world order where resource sovereignty is non-negotiable, positioning Beijing as a defender of developing nations against external pressures in the race for critical minerals essential to the green energy revolution.