China has been a member of the United Nations (UN) for 35 years. During this period, the world situation has changed gre atly, and the domestic situation in China has also taken on a new look with the deepening of reform and opening up since 1978. The changes in China have been reflected in its multil at eral diplom atic policy and its important and unique role in the UN arena. With the increasing role and status of the UN in the intern ational order, China has become a stronger foll ower and defender of the intern ational organization.