China's National People's Congress Standing Committee Chairman Zhao Leji will deliver a keynote speech at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2026 on March 26, marking one of the region's most anticipated economic diplomacy events this year. The forum, held in Hainan Province, will convene global leaders to discuss Asia's evolving role in sustainable development and multilateral cooperation.
As a senior member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee's Political Bureau Standing Committee, Zhao's participation underscores Beijing's commitment to fostering regional economic integration. Foreign ministry officials confirmed his attendance comes amid heightened interest in China's post-pandemic recovery strategies and cross-strait economic partnerships.
This year's forum theme—expected to address supply chain resilience and green technology—aligns with recent initiatives announced during the Two Sessions meetings in Beijing. Analysts predict Zhao's speech may outline new measures to deepen cooperation between the Chinese mainland and Southeast Asian economies.
First launched in 2001, the Boao Forum has grown into a key platform for shaping Asia's economic agenda. The 2026 edition follows last year's landmark agreements on digital trade frameworks, with over 2,000 delegates from 50+ countries and regions anticipated to attend.
