Amid debates on global energy futures, China’s UN ambassador Fu Cong took a principled stand, insisting that the world fully respect each country’s sovereign authority over its natural resources. In his March 5 remarks to the Security Council on energy, critical minerals, and security, Fu rooted his position in international law, declaring nations as the ultimate stewards of their endowments.
The backdrop is transformative: the green energy shift and AI boom are fueling unprecedented appetite for lithium, cobalt, and other essentials, clashing with supply constraints in an era of upheaval. Fu advocated strengthened solidarity to forge robust global chains, ensuring steady flows that power economic progress everywhere.
A stable milieu is paramount, Fu noted, lamenting Middle East flashpoints that threaten to upend markets. He issued a direct plea for de-escalation and cessation of hostilities to shield the world economy from shocks.
Extending his gaze to resource-cursed regions like parts of Africa, Fu decried cycles of ‘mineral disruptions,’ smuggling rackets, and warlord-fueled strife. Solutions lie in collaborative backing for affected states to enforce laws, curb crimes, and dismantle conflict enablers at their source.
Fu’s speech signals China’s pushback against resource nationalism from the West, advocating equitable access through mutual respect rather than dominance. In a mineral-hungry future, this stance could redefine international resource diplomacy.