Chinese Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed China's commitment to global economic cooperation during his keynote address at the ASEAN-China-GCC Economic Forum 2025 on Tuesday, calling for collective action to preserve the World Trade Organization (WTO)-centered multilateral trading system.
Speaking to representatives from Southeast Asian and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, Li emphasized the need to counter rising protectionism and unilateralism. "All parties must resolutely uphold the rules-based international order," he stated, urging nations to "remove barriers and foster a stable, predictable market environment."
The premier highlighted China's economic resilience, comparing the nation's development trajectory to a "big ship" capable of navigating global challenges through continued high-level opening-up policies. He outlined plans to deepen cooperation with ASEAN and GCC members in trade, digital economy, and green energy sectors.
Analysts view Li's remarks as timely reassurance to international investors amid geopolitical tensions. The tripartite forum, first launched in 2022, has gained strategic importance as Asia-Gulf trade volumes grew 22% year-on-year in 2024.
