WorldJuly 17, 2026

multilateralism

MULL-tee-LAT-er-uh-liz-um

Definition

A policy or system of diplomacy involving cooperation among three or more nations to solve common problems or achieve shared goals.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'multus' (many) and 'latus' (side), the term emerged in the 20th century to describe international relations involving multiple states rather than just two.

In the news

The word is used here to describe how the EU and China intend to cooperate on international issues, emphasizing that their relationship involves collective global engagement rather than just bilateral negotiations.

EU-China relations: Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee to visit Beijing and Shanghai

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Zprávy Kurzy.cz

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