Over 60 legislators and former lawmakers from five continents joined Chinese deputies in Urumqi this week to shape a collaborative vision for global development, as the 2025 Legislators Forum for Friendly Exchanges concluded with the adoption of the Urumqi Declaration. The event, hosted in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, emphasized multilateral cooperation, sustainable growth, and cross-cultural dialogue.
Building Bridges Through Legislation
Under the theme "Global Partnership for Common and Sustainable Development," participants discussed high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, green energy transitions, and human rights frameworks. Key sessions included dialogues with EU legislators and representatives from Global South nations, highlighting the forum's role in fostering inclusive policy exchanges.
Key Commitments
The declaration called for an "equal and orderly multipolar world," urging nations to uphold UN-centered international systems and oppose hegemonism. It advocated for economic globalization that prioritizes development rights of Global South countries and endorsed China's modernization model as a catalyst for global progress.
Xinjiang in Focus
Participants praised Xinjiang's socioeconomic advancements over the past 70 years, noting stability, ethnic unity, and improved living standards. The forum rejected external interference in China's internal affairs, particularly regarding Xinjiang-related matters.
Next Steps
Legislators endorsed institutionalizing the forum, with China set to host its fourth edition in 2026. The event concluded with broad support for China's Global Development and Security Initiatives, positioning legislative diplomacy as a cornerstone for addressing transnational challenges.
