As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, China remains firm in its commitment to encouraging the role of the United Nations in expanding international cooperation, promoting world peace and development and opposing unilateralism. China holds that the UN Charter and its principles should be observed conscientiously by all member states to safeguard the authority of the UN and its Security Council. China also supports necessary reforms for improving the functions and efficiency of the UN. In regard to the Iraq War and its aftermath, China resolutely supports the United Nations' playing an important role.