Chinese Premier Li Qiang Calls for an Open World Economy at BRICS Summit
Chinese Premier Li Qiang has emphasized the importance of building an open world economy and opposing unilateralism and protectionism during his address at the 17th BRICS Summit. Speaking at the plenary sessions attended by leaders from BRICS nations, partner countries, and international organizations, Li highlighted the need for stability in global industrial and supply chains.
“The current international economic and trade order faces severe challenges, and the global economic recovery remains arduous,” Li stated. He called for BRICS cooperation to stay true to its founding purpose, uphold multilateralism, and promote a fair and open international economic and trade order. “We must join forces in the Global South and contribute to global stability and development,” he added.
Li urged BRICS nations to uphold the fundamental principles of the World Trade Organization and promote trade and investment liberalization. He noted the establishment of the China Center for Cooperation on Development of Special Economic Zones in BRICS Countries earlier this year and expressed willingness to build a cooperative network with all parties.
The Chinese premier also emphasized enhancing international financial cooperation. He supported the expansion of the New Development Bank and welcomed qualified Global South countries to invest in China’s financial market. Li called for progress in the World Bank’s equity review and the International Monetary Fund’s quota share adjustments to increase the representation and voice of developing countries.
Addressing emerging fields, Li advocated for cooperation in digital and green economies. He announced China’s initiative for digital development in the Global South, planning to offer 200 training programs in digital economy and artificial intelligence over the next five years. “We aim to empower industries with artificial intelligence and assist Global South countries in strengthening their capacity building,” Li said.
On environmental and health issues, Li highlighted the mounting uncertainties in global climate and health sectors. He called on the international community to forge a broad consensus and tackle common challenges together. Li urged strengthened global synergy in addressing climate change, deepening cooperation in clean energy, and fulfilling commitments on climate change financing and technology transfer.
Li also stressed the importance of environmental and ecological protection, advocating for harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature. He called for better implementation of international conventions on biodiversity and desertification.
In the health sector, Li encouraged bolstering public health systems and supporting the World Health Organization’s coordinating role in global health governance. He emphasized leveraging platforms like the BRICS Vaccine Research and Development Center to provide more public goods for the Global South.
“China has always honored its commitments and actively contributed to global needs,” Li affirmed. “We will continue to take concrete actions, shoulder our responsibilities, and work with all parties to promote greener, healthier, and more sustainable global development.”
During the summit, the BRICS Leaders’ Statement on the Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence and the BRICS Leaders’ Framework Declaration on Climate Finance were adopted.
