Zhu Guanyu. Photo: GT

China has long cooperated with the United Nations in various ways, and although each military observer's term is only one year, China has consistently maintained a presence of military observers in the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara, a Chinese scholar said at Global Times Annual Conference 2025, themed "Moving forward in Partnership: Resonance of Values between China and the World," held in Beijing on Saturday. 

Zhu Guanyu, who served as a military observer for the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara from May 2023 to May 2024, said the Western Sahara region has experienced prolonged conflicts, transitioning from intense hostilities at the beginning to overall stability now. Throughout this process, the United Nations has made numerous efforts, and China has also contributed its share.

Currently, there are over 200 observers from 44 countries in the mission area, including 11 observers from China. Military observers are tasked with patrolling, verifying number of weapons and military personnel, investigating emergency incidents, and ensuring UN's presence in the region, making sure the conflicting parties to keep safety, peace and stability within the framework of the ceasefire agreement.

Zhu noted that Chinese observers have gained respect from both colleagues and local residents through their excellent professionalism and capabilities, confidence and belief in peace, unique approachability, as well as their respect and support for the local people and culture. When military observers leave the mission area, local residents often express sorrow, with some shedding tears when observers depart. Although each military observer's term is only one year, China has consistently maintained a presence of military observers in the region. 

Zhu stated that although the world is still intertwined with turmoil and chaos, he believes that joint efforts by China and other nations can guide the world toward peace.

Global Times