The Boao Forum for Asia 2024 Annual Conference kicked off in Boao, Hainan Province with a resounding call to strengthen unity and cooperation in the face of global challenges. Foreign dignitaries and heads of international organizations gathered at the opening ceremony to oppose “decoupling” and “building walls” and instead advocated for joint responses to promote stable growth of the world economy.
Kazakhstan President Tokayev highlighted Asia’s role in leading a new era of sustainable development, emphasizing the need for cooperation among Asian countries in areas such as sustainable development, digital innovation, and cultural exchanges. Nauru’s President Adiang, representing a Pacific island nation, expressed support for “building bridges” and emphasized the importance of China’s development concepts in promoting economic globalization.
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Gunawardena emphasized the need for global collaboration to address challenges such as climate change and energy transition, citing China’s technology contributions in areas like hybrid rice. Dominica Prime Minister Skerrit praised China’s Belt and Road Initiative for its positive impact on poverty reduction, development financing, and green development.
Hun Sen, Chairman of the King’s Advisory Council of Cambodia, stressed the importance of rules-based multilateralism and deeper integration to sustain Asia’s economic growth. Deng Hongsen from the World Intellectual Property Organization highlighted Asia’s growing role in intellectual property rights, with 70% of global IP applications originating from the region.
Coleman, Secretary-General of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, lauded Asia’s dynamic and innovative development model, calling for continued cooperation to ensure strong, resilient, sustainable, and inclusive global growth. The participants at the Boao Forum for Asia echoed the sentiment of unity and cooperation to address pressing global challenges and shape a prosperous future.