In a bid to bolster South-South cooperation and foster greater development through unwavering unity, China has extended its hand in partnership to the Group of 77 (G77) members. Li Xi, a distinguished member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, articulated this resounding commitment during the recent Summit of the Group of 77 plus China in Havana, Cuba. As the special envoy of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Li Xi not only underscored China’s eagerness to collaborate with G77 nations but also unveiled a vision for a shared future, marking a transformative chapter in the annals of global cooperation.
A Call for Unity in a Changing World
Li Xi illuminated the seismic shifts reshaping the world on an unprecedented scale, where developing countries are emerging as influential forces. South-South cooperation, he stressed, now holds a pivotal role in propelling the ascent of developing nations and sustaining global economic growth. Nevertheless, this journey towards shared prosperity is riddled with challenges, with the surge of unilateralism and hegemony casting a looming shadow. The deployment of tactics such as unilateral sanctions, decoupling, and disruption of industrial and supply chains poses a grave threat to the legitimate development rights and interests of developing nations, leaving them grappling with limited space for growth. It is in this crucible of change that Li Xi championed the cause of solidarity and cooperation among developing countries, a quest to usher in a fairer and more equitable global governance.
A Tripartite Proposition for Prosperity
Li Xi presented a succinct yet powerful tripartite proposal aimed at invigorating collaboration between the G77 and China. First and foremost, he called upon G77 members to remain steadfast in their pursuit of independence and collective strength through unity, a clarion call resonating with the founding spirit of the G77. Secondly, he advocated for equity, justice, and inclusiveness as the cornerstones of this newfound alliance. Thirdly, he appealed for an unwavering commitment to development, revitalization, and win-win cooperation. This comprehensive framework aims to not only fortify existing bonds but also venture into uncharted territories where shared growth awaits.
Embracing Innovation and Digital Equality
For Li Xi, the path to mutual development traverses through innovation and technology. He underscored the need to foster new drivers of development, with a particular focus on areas such as food security, poverty alleviation, industrialization, green development, digital technology, and artificial intelligence. Crucially, Li Xi emphasized that these technological advancements must be inclusive, ensuring that all countries reap the dividends of the digital age. Developing nations should not be left behind in the race to embrace new technologies and industries. China, as the world’s largest developing country, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to this cause, aligning South-South cooperation with its highest priorities.
As part of this commitment, Li Xi invited G77 members to join the upcoming third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing, scheduled for mid-October. This event, he said, would be an ideal platform for shaping the future of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation and charting a course towards greater development.
China’s resolute pledge to collaborate with G77 nations marks a significant stride towards a more equitable world order. Li Xi’s three-point proposal, rooted in unity, justice, and mutual development, offers a beacon of hope for developing nations as they strive for shared prosperity.
