China’s top legislator, Zhao Leji, delivered a keynote speech at the opening plenary of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 in Hainan Province, China, on Thursday. Zhao, Chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, emphasized China’s commitment to innovation-driven development and called for enhanced global cooperation.
Commitment to a First-Class Investment Environment
Zhao announced that China will proactively align with high-standard international economic and trade rules to create a first-class investment environment. “Investing in China is investing in the future,” he stated, highlighting that China’s vast market will continue to unleash significant potential. He extended an invitation to all countries to “board the express train of China’s development” and work together towards global modernization characterized by peaceful development, mutually beneficial cooperation, and common prosperity.
Advancing Green and Low-Carbon Development
Emphasizing the importance of sustainable growth, Zhao noted that China’s green and low-carbon initiatives will drive substantial economic expansion, cultivating a market worth 10 trillion yuan (approximately $1.4 trillion) annually in investment and consumption. He pointed out that nearly half of the world’s installed photovoltaic power capacity is in China, over half of the world’s new energy vehicles are operating in China, and China contributes a quarter of the global increase in new forested areas.
Promoting High-Quality Development and Chinese Modernization
Zhao outlined China’s efforts to advance Chinese modernization through high-quality development, which is expected to inject robust momentum into the global economic recovery. This development will offer more opportunities for all countries, especially neighboring Asian nations, fostering regional growth and collaboration.
Call for Unity Against Geopolitical Tensions
Addressing regional stability, Zhao urged Asian nations to remain united against unilateralism and extreme egoism. He opposed the creation of confrontational blocs and cautioned against the region and the world becoming arenas for geopolitical rivalry. Zhao called on Asian countries to reject trade protectionism, dismantle barriers, and oppose all forms of decoupling to promote collective prosperity.
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Highlights: Zhao Leji addresses Boao Forum for Asia annual conference
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