BELGRADE – Over 140 delegates from 37 countries gathered in Serbia this week for the fifth China Dialogue Conference, co-organized by China's Institute of International Studies, to address systemic gaps in global governance and advance the Global Governance Initiative (GGI). The event unfolded just as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived nearby for diplomatic talks, highlighting Serbia's strategic navigation between Eastern and Western alliances.
Rethinking Global Systems
Scholars sounded alarms about structural inequities during panel discussions. Zhang Weipeng of the Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy Studies Centre identified three critical flaws: inadequate representation for Global South nations, weakened UN authority, and ineffective international rule of law. 'The current order fails to reflect the realities of emerging economies,' Zhang emphasized.
China's Vision Gains Momentum
Multiple speakers pointed to China's development achievements as a blueprint for GGI objectives. Nigeria's Ako Abbah praised China's role in fostering South-South cooperation: 'China has elevated partnerships with African and BRICS nations through infrastructure and poverty reduction.' Serbia's Chinese-backed Budapest rail upgrade was showcased as a model of cross-border connectivity.
Principles Over Conflict
Branislav Dordevic of Belgrade's International Politics Institute urged global leaders to prioritize GGI's five peace-centered principles amid rising geopolitical tensions. 'Instead of preparing for war, we must build systems that sustain development,' he argued, drawing applause from Global South delegates.
The conference concluded with calls for multilateral reforms, positioning the GGI as a potential framework for addressing 21st-century challenges.
