China’s top legislator Zhao Leji delivered a keynote speech on Thursday at the opening plenary of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 in Boao, Hainan Province. Addressing leaders, officials, and delegates from across Asia and the world, Zhao emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation in facing global challenges and building a better future.
Zhao highlighted that the world is undergoing accelerated transformations unseen in a century, with peace and development facing grave challenges. He called for solidarity to tackle risks and challenges, rather than clinging to zero-sum mentalities that push the world toward division and confrontation.
Reiterating President Xi Jinping’s vision, Zhao advocated for building “a community with a shared future for mankind,” where the future of all nations is interconnected. He stated that this vision aligns with international consensus and reflects China’s sense of responsibility as a major country.
Strengthening Asian Cooperation
Zhao urged Asian countries to work together to maintain regional security, promote development, champion cooperation, advance openness, and carry forward Asian civilizations. He stressed that peace and stability are the common aspirations of Asian people and the prerequisite for development.
“In the face of intertwined and complex global security threats, we should implement the Global Security Initiative, follow the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security, reject the Cold War mentality and bloc confrontation, oppose power politics and hegemonic acts, and maintain the regional order that accommodates the needs and interests of all parties,” Zhao said.
China’s Commitment to Development
Highlighting China’s recent economic achievements, Zhao noted that China’s GDP grew by 5.2% last year and is expected to grow by around 5% this year, making it one of the highest among major economies. He emphasized China’s commitment to innovative, open, green, and shared development.
Zhao outlined China’s efforts in scientific and technological innovation, stating that the country stands ready to intensify cooperation with all nations in this field. He also affirmed China’s dedication to opening up its economy, further aligning with high-standard international economic and trade rules, and fostering a pro-business environment.
Regarding green development, Zhao mentioned China’s acceleration towards green and low-carbon economic and social development, aiming to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060. He invited other countries to join in cultivating new growth drivers in green infrastructure, energy, transportation, and lifestyle.
Building a Shared Future
Zhao concluded his speech by calling on all countries to reinforce confidence and work together to build a community with a shared future for mankind. “We live in a global village. All countries sail in the same boat and share the same future,” he said. He emphasized the importance of pooling wisdom and strength to overcome global risks and challenges and create a better future for Asia and the world.
The Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 brings together leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss pressing issues affecting the region and the world. This year’s theme, “Asia and the World: Common Challenges, Shared Responsibilities,” reflects the collective effort needed to address global challenges.
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Full text: Keynote speech by Zhao Leji at Boao Forum for Asia 2024
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