China reacts to US bid to rejoin UNESCO

China called on the United States to be a responsible member after UNESCO announced on Monday Washington's decision to ask to rejoin after a gap of five years.

Audrey Azoulay, director-general of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, told representatives of the organization's 193 member states about the application on Monday.

Yang Jin, China's ambassador to UNESCO, said on Monday after the announcement that the US' two withdrawals from UNESCO had a negative impact on the organization's work.

"Being a member of an international organization is a serious issue," Yang said. "We hope the return of the US this time means it acknowledges the mission and goals of the organization, and is willing to adhere to true multilateralism and promote international cooperation."

Yang said the US should pay the arrears of its assessed contribution owed to UNESCO in full.

"We also hope that the US will shoulder its international responsibilities and fulfill its obligations and assure its sincerity to comply with international rules and respect international rule of law."

The return of the US was made possible by the agreement reached by Congress in December 2022 authorizing financial contributions to UNESCO. The US had suspended its contributions in 2011 due to domestic legislation, before notifying UNESCO of its decision to legally withdraw on Oct 12, 2017.

The return of the US is expected to be voted on by UNESCO's 193 member states next month.