•Over the past decade, the vision of a community with a shared future for humankind has transcended from a Chinese proposal to a global endeavor
•China offers a resolute response to this pressing inquiry of our times: by fostering collaboration and constructing a community with a shared destiny for humankind.
Image: Xinhua
The 2024 Boao Forum for Asia ended on March 29 in southern China's Hainan Province. Initiated by 25 Asian countries and Australia, Boao is a non-profit organisation that hosts high-level forums for leaders from government, business and academia in Asia and other continents to share their vision on the most pressing issues in this region and the world at large.
On March 28, the Chairman of the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress (NPC), H.E. Zhao Leji, gave a keynote address in which he extolled the members to work together to meet challenges and create a better future for Asia and the world.
He started by noting that the present era is marked by swift transformations, unparalleled in a century. The global economic recovery remains sluggish, accompanied by persistent problems and conflicts, while instances of hegemony and bullying further exacerbate tensions.
In such a milieu, the crucial question arises: do we unite in solidarity to confront these risks and challenges, or do we adhere to a zero-sum mentality, driving the world towards division and confrontation? This pivotal choice and the subsequent path we tread will profoundly shape the future of humanity and the world at large. It is within this context that the theme of this year’s Annual Conference, “Asia and the World: Common Challenges, Shared Responsibilities,” resonates profoundly.
Where should humanity be steering its course? China offers a resolute response to this pressing inquiry of our times: by fostering collaboration and constructing a community with a shared destiny for humankind. President Xi Jinping has articulated on numerous international platforms that forging such a community entails recognizing the interconnected fate of all nations and rallying together through thick and thin to build a harmonious global family. This vision, rooted in the collective aspirations of the international community, epitomizes China’s sense of responsibility as a major global actor. It signifies China’s contribution to the collective endeavor of safeguarding the planet and crafting a brighter future for all.
Over the past decade, the vision of a community with a shared future for humankind has transcended from a Chinese proposal to a global endeavor, from a promising ideal to tangible actions, and from a conceptual framework to a comprehensive system. China advocates for an equitable and orderly multipolar world and a globalization that benefits all. It asserts the equality of all nations irrespective of size, urging countries to transcend outdated bloc mentalities and zero-sum games.
Zhao said that China calls for genuine multilateralism and joint efforts to construct an open global economy. Through initiatives like the Belt and Road cooperation, the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), China has significantly contributed to global stability and prosperity, delivering tangible benefits to people worldwide.
Image: Xinhua
Seventy years ago, the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence were articulated in Asia. Today, these principles resonate with renewed vigor and relevance. Having weathered through wars, adversities, and trials, Asian societies hold a deep reverence for peace and recognize the arduous journey of development. Thus, it is imperative to uphold the banner of a shared future for humankind, fostering an Asian community united in shared destiny, and collaboratively striving for a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Asian home.
The NPC chairman noted that ensuring security in Asia and fostering global peace and stability necessitates rejecting Cold War mentalities and power politics, advocating for common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security, and upholding regional orders that accommodate the interests of all parties. Similarly, promoting Asian development offers significant opportunities for global economic rejuvenation. With Asia being the most dynamic region globally, accounting for a substantial portion of global GDP and growth, concerted efforts are required to deepen cooperation, capitalize on technological advancements, and promote sustainable development to stimulate global economic recovery.
Asian nations possess a rich tradition of solidarity and mutual assistance during challenging times. In the face of divisive rhetoric and geopolitical tensions, maintaining independence, fostering unity, and resisting unilateralism and bloc confrontations are imperative. Championing openness in Asia and fostering win-win cooperation entail advancing regional economic integration, opposing trade protectionism, and facilitating mutual understanding and affinity among diverse civilizations.
Recent conclaves in China have set forth ambitious targets and policy measures for economic and social development, underscoring confidence in China’s economic resurgence and long-term growth prospects. China’s commitment to innovation, open development, green initiatives, and shared prosperity positions it as a crucial partner in global development endeavors. As an ancient Chinese adage goes, pooling wisdom and strength is the key to overcoming challenges and achieving victories. In the interconnected global landscape, all nations share a common destiny. Thus, concerted efforts and collective action are imperative to construct a community with a shared future for humanity and propel Asia and the world towards a brighter future.
Stephen Ndegwa is the Executive Director of South-South Dialogues, a Nairobi-based communications development think tank, and a PhD student at the United States International University-Africa