Beijing is set to host the Global Leaders' Meeting on Women from October 13 to 14, with Chinese President Xi Jinping slated to deliver a keynote address at the opening ceremony. The event underscores China's growing role in advancing gender equality, a cause Xi has consistently prioritized during his tenure.
Xi's Vision for Women's Progress
President Xi has frequently emphasized women's critical contributions to social and economic development. "Women hold up half the sky," he remarked during a 2015 global women's summit, urging nations to "create a supportive environment for women's all-around development." His speeches often link gender equality to broader national revitalization goals, framing it as a cornerstone of societal progress.
Policy Commitments and Global Collaboration
At a 2020 symposium, Xi highlighted the need to "safeguard women's rights through legal frameworks" and "eliminate discrimination in education, employment, and healthcare." He has also called for international cooperation, stating: "Global development cannot be achieved without women's participation." These principles align with China's recent initiatives to boost female representation in STEM fields and leadership roles.
Summit Expectations
Analysts anticipate Xi's upcoming speech will outline concrete measures to address systemic barriers while reinforcing China's commitment to multilateral efforts. The meeting comes as Asia witnesses shifting workforce dynamics, with women accounting for 43% of the region's entrepreneurs—a trend investors and policymakers are closely monitoring.
