Xi Jinping to visit Hong Kong on 25th anniversary of British handover   12%

Trip will be president’s first known visit outside mainland China since January 2020 after Covid outbreak

The Chinese president, Xi Jinping, will visit Hong Kong for the 25th anniversary of the city’s handover to mainland China, the state news agency Xinhua reported on Saturday.

The trip will be Xi’s first known visit outside mainland China since January 2020 after the Covid-19 outbreak. He will also attend the inaugural ceremony of the sixth-term government of Hong Kong, Xinhua said.

China's Xi to attend Hong Kong handover anniversary  

The Chinese president is also set to attend the inauguration of the next Hong Kong administration. His attendance is seen as a display of Beijing's control over the city amid a crackdown on dissent.

Chinese, Guyanese presidents exchange congratulations on 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties  

BEIJING, June 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Guyanese counterpart, Irfaan Ali, exchanged congratulatory messages on Monday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Xi pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 50 years ago, China-Guyana relations have achieved significant development, with political mutual trust continuously deepened and practical cooperation yielding fruitful results.

Ever since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the people of the two countries have worked together with solidarity and mutual assistance, writing a new chapter of China-Guyana friendship, he said.

Xi said he attaches great importance to the development of bilateral relations, and is willing to work with Ali to take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to lift bilateral relations to new levels and bring benefits to the two countries and their people.

For his part, Ali said that Guyana was the first country in the English-speaking Caribbean to establish diplomatic ties with China, and that the country firmly adheres to the one-China policy.

Over the past 50 years, Guyana and China have always adhered to the principle of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, and the traditional friendship between the two countries has withstood the test of time, Ali said.

He added that Guyana stands ready to take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to continuously deepen bilateral friendship.

Xi stresses listening to people's voices through internet, other channels   4%

BEIJING, June 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has underscored the importance of better listening to the people's voices by making use of the internet and other channels.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a recent instruction on studying and absorbing netizens' suggestions and views on the work related to the upcoming 20th National Congress of the CPC.

Xi stressed better respecting public opinion and following the aspirations of the people.

Noting that the 20th CPC National Congress is an important event on the Party and the country's political agenda, Xi said the collection of public opinion via online platforms is an effective way for Party members and the general public to contribute ideas to the country's development and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

It is also an example of the whole-process people's democracy, he added.

A myriad of constructive ideas and suggestions were made, and competent departments should give them a thorough look and adopt those that are useful, Xi added.

Successful practices in the solicitation of public views on the Party's national congress should be summarized to offer a reference for better implementation of the Party's mass line under new circumstances, Xi noted.

From April 15 to May 16, internet platforms were used to collect public views and suggestions for the 20th CPC National Congress scheduled for the second half of 2022. More than 8.54 million pieces of suggestions and ideas were received.

President Xi chairs High-level Dialogue on Global Development, vowing continued support to 2030 Agenda   8%

BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday chaired the High-level Dialogue on Global Development in Beijing via video link and delivered important remarks.

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria, President Alberto Fernandez of Argentina, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt, President Joko Widodo of Indonesia, President Seyyed Ebrahim Raeisi of Iran, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, President Vladimir Putin of Russia, President Macky Sall of Senegal, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan, Vice President Hamilton Mourao of Brazil, Prime Minister Hun Sen of Cambodia, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali of Ethiopia, Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama of Fiji, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob of Malaysia, and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha of Thailand attended the Dialogue.

Focusing on the theme "Foster a Global Development Partnership for the New Era to Jointly Implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development", leaders of all countries had in-depth exchange of views on such major issues as strengthening international development cooperation and accelerating the implementation of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. They discussed ways to promote development cooperation and reached wide, important common understandings.

President Xi Jinping delivered an important speech titled "Forging High-quality Partnership for a New Era of Global Development".

President Xi Jinping pointed out that development is a timeless theme for humanity. Only through continuous development can the people's dream for a better life and social stability be realized. Over the years, developing countries have worked unremittingly to explore development paths suited to their national realities and to pursue economic and social development. Such efforts have produced remarkable outcomes. Today, emerging markets and developing countries account for half of the world economy, and notable progress has been made in science and technology, education, social development, culture and many other areas. We are meeting at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic is eroding decades of gains in global development, the implementation of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is encountering difficulties, the North-South gap keeps widening, and crises are emerging in food and energy security. At the same time, people in all countries are more keen about pursuing peace, development and cooperation, emerging markets and developing countries are more resolved to seek strength through unity, and the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation is bringing more opportunities to countries around the world.

President Xi Jinping stressed that this is an age rife with challenges, but it is also an age full of hope. We must get a good grasp of the overarching development trend in the world, firm up confidence, and act in unison and with great motivation to promote global development and foster a development paradigm featuring benefits for all, balance, coordination, inclusiveness, win-win cooperation and common prosperity.

First, we need to jointly build international consensus on promoting development. Only when people all over the world live better lives can prosperity be sustained, security safeguarded and human rights solidly grounded. It is important that we put development front and center on the international agenda, deliver on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and build political consensus to ensure everyone values development and all countries pursue cooperation together.

Second, we need to jointly create an enabling international environment for development. Protectionist moves will boomerang; anyone attempting to form exclusive blocs will end up isolating himself; maximum sanctions serve nobody's interest, and practices of decoupling and supply disruption are neither feasible nor sustainable. It is important that we pursue development in real earnest and promote development in concert, build an open world economy, and shape a global governance system and institutional environment that are more just and equitable.

Third, we need to jointly foster new drivers for global development. It is important that we promote scientific, technological and institutional innovation, speed up technology transfer and knowledge sharing, boost the development of modern industries, close the digital divide and accelerate low-carbon transition, with a view to achieving stronger, greener and healthier global development.

Fourth, we need to jointly forge a global development partnership. Only by working together can we accomplish big and great things with a far-reaching impact. Developed countries need to fulfill obligations, developing countries need to deepen cooperation, and the North and the South need to work in the same direction to forge a united, equal, balanced and inclusive global development partnership. In this process, no country or individual should be left behind. It is important that we support the UN in steering and coordinating global development cooperation, and encourage business communities, social groups, the media and think tanks to take part in such cooperation.

President Xi stressed that China has always been a member of the big family of developing countries. China will take pragmatic steps to give continued support to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

-China will allocate more resources for global development cooperation. We will upgrade the South-South Cooperation Assistance Fund to a Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund. We will also increase input to the UN Peace and Development Trust Fund. Such efforts will further support cooperation under the Global Development Initiative (GDI).

-China will work with all sides to advance cooperation in priority areas and mobilize resources for development to deepen global cooperation on poverty reduction and eradication, build capacity for food production and supply, and promote clean energy partnerships; step up innovation, research and development and joint production of vaccines; work on the conservation and sustainable use of land and marine ecology; and raise digital literacy and skills of the public, transform and upgrade the path to industrialization at a faster pace, and enhance connectivity in the digital era to inject new impetus into the development of all countries.

-China will set up a platform for experience and knowledge sharing on international development, a global development promotion center and a global knowledge network for development, for the purpose of exchanging governance experience. We will host a global forum on youth development and take part in the launch of a global action plan on youth development, in a bid to pool as much strength as possible for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

President Xi Jinping pointed out that as an ancient Chinese adage goes, "With one heart and one mind, we can accomplish everything we aspire for." Let us firm up confidence, stride forward in pursuit of high-quality partnership, and usher in a new era of prosperity and development.

Leaders attending the Dialogue delivered remarks respectively. They thanked China for initiating and hosting this High-level Dialogue on Global Development, and commended President Xi's insights into global development cooperation. The cause of international peace and development is now faced with severe challenges. The emerging markets and developing countries are a crucial force in building a more equitable and balanced international order and promoting peace, security, equality and development. They need to strengthen solidarity and cooperation, and work with the international community to put the issue of development front and center and build a better world that meets the needs and expectations of most developing countries. The Dialogue is most opportune and relevant. It helps parties to reach new understandings on international development cooperation, safeguard common interests of developing countries, and inject new impetus into maintaining world peace and promoting common development.

The leaders applauded and supported the GDI and the Global Security Initiative proposed by China. They all agreed that development is the foundation of security and security is the prerequisite for development. They believed that China's initiatives address the concerns and meet the needs of developing countries, and are conducive to forging international consensus, mobilizing development resources and expediting the implementation of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. They expressed the hope to step up cooperation in such areas as poverty alleviation, epidemic prevention and control, food security and energy security. They also hoped to create more synergy between the GDI and regional development plans to jointly tackle poverty, inequality and development challenges. Parties raised serious concerns over the negative spillover of unilateral sanctions and the heavy toll they have taken on vulnerable developing countries. Parties stressed the need to practice true multilateralism, defend the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, uphold fairness and justice, and advance reforms of the global governance system. Emerging markets and developing countries need to better coordinate and cooperate, strive for greater representation and voice in international affairs, ensure the sound and steady operation of the international economic and financial system, work for the steady recovery and sustainable development of the world economy, and together forge a united, equal, balanced and inclusive global development partnership.

The Chair's Statement was issued after the Dialogue. It fully outlined the participants' political consensus on global development and proposes measures for practical cooperation in priority areas under the GDI.

Ding Xuexiang, Wang Yi and He Lifeng, among others, attended the Dialogue.

Xi hosts High-level Dialogue on Global Development  

BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted the High-level Dialogue on Global Development on Friday in virtual format, calling for joint efforts to promote global development and foster a development paradigm featuring benefits for all, balance, coordination, inclusiveness, win-win cooperation and common prosperity.

Noting development is a timeless theme for humanity, Xi said only through continuous development can the people's dream for a better life and social stability be realized.

Xi pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic is eroding decades of gains in global development, the implementation of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is encountering difficulties, the North-South gap keeps widening, and crises are emerging in food and energy security.

"This is an age rife with challenges, but it is also an age full of hope," said Xi.

Xi urged joint efforts to build international consensus on promoting development, adding it is important that we put development front and center on the international agenda, deliver on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and build political consensus to ensure everyone values development and all countries pursue cooperation together.

Xi went on to call for joint efforts to create an enabling international environment for development, adding it is important that we pursue development in real earnest and promote development in concert, build an open world economy, and shape a global governance system and institutional environment that are more just and equitable.

Xi also said all countries need to jointly foster new drivers for global development, adding it is important that we promote scientific, technological and institutional innovation, speed up technology transfer and knowledge sharing, boost the development of modern industries, close the digital divide and accelerate low-carbon transition, with a view to achieving stronger, greener and healthier global development.

Xi said all sides need to jointly forge a global development partnership, adding developed countries need to fulfill obligations, developing countries need to deepen cooperation, and the North and the South need to work in the same direction to forge a united, equal, balanced and inclusive global development partnership.

Noting China has always been a member of the big family of developing countries, Xi said China will take pragmatic steps to give continued support to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

He said China will upgrade the South-South Cooperation Assistance Fund to a Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund, add 1 billion U.S. dollars to the fund on top of the 3 billion dollars already committed, and increase input to the UN Peace and Development Trust Fund.

China will work with all sides to advance cooperation in priority areas and mobilize resources for development to deepen global cooperation on poverty reduction and eradication, build capacity for food production and supply, and promote clean energy partnerships, he added.

Xi also said China will set up a platform for experience and knowledge sharing on international development, a global development promotion center and a global knowledge network for development, for the purpose of exchanging governance experience and promoting mutual learning.

"We will host a global forum on youth development and take part in the launch of a global action plan on youth development, in a bid to pool as much strength as possible for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," added Xi.

Full Text: Remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the 14th BRICS Summit  

BEIJING, June 23 (Xinhua) -- On the evening of June 23, Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted the 14th BRICS Summit in Beijing via video link.

Following is the full text of the remarks by President Xi at the Summit:

Fostering High-quality Partnership and Embarking on a New Journey of BRICS Cooperation

Remarks by H.E. Xi Jinping

President of the People's Republic of China

At the 14th BRICS Summit

23 June 2022

Dear Colleagues,

Our world today is living through accelerating changes unseen in a century and continued spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. They confront humanity with unprecedented challenges and usher in a new phase of instability and transformation for global development.

The Chinese people often say, "True gold can stand the test of fire." Over the past 16 years, the giant ship of BRICS has sailed forward tenaciously against raging torrents and storms. Riding the wind and cleaving the waves, it has embarked on a righteous course of mutual support and win-win cooperation. Standing at the crossroads of history, we should both look back at the journey we have traveled and keep in mind why we established BRICS in the first place, and look forward to a shared future of a more comprehensive, close, practical and inclusive high-quality partnership so as to jointly embark on a new journey of BRICS cooperation.

First, we need to uphold solidarity and safeguard world peace and tranquility. Our world today is overshadowed by the dark clouds of Cold War mentality and power politics, and beset by constantly emerging traditional and non-traditional security threats. Some countries attempt to expand military alliances to seek absolute security, stoke bloc-based confrontation by coercing other countries into picking sides, and pursue unilateral dominance at the expense of others' rights and interests. If such dangerous trends are allowed to continue, the world will witness even more turbulence and insecurity.

It is important that BRICS countries support each other on issues concerning core interests, practice true multilateralism, safeguard justice, fairness and solidarity and reject hegemony, bullying and division. This year, we have held the Foreign Ministers' Meeting and the Meeting of High Representatives on National Security, deepened cooperation on counter-terrorism, cybersecurity and other issues, enhanced coordination at the United Nations and other multilateral institutions, and spoke out for justice on the international stage.

Not long ago, I put forward the Global Security Initiative (GSI), which advocates a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, follows the philosophy that humanity is an indivisible security community, and aims to create a new path to security that features dialogue over confrontation, partnership over alliance and win-win over zero-sum. China would like to work with BRICS partners to operationalize the GSI and bring more stability and positive energy to the world.

Second, we need to uphold cooperation to boost development and jointly tackle risks and challenges. The combination of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine crisis has resulted in disruptions to global industrial and supply chains, sustained hikes of commodity prices, and weaker international monetary and financial systems. All these have cast shadows over development worldwide, and emerging markets and developing countries bear the brunt. But just as a crisis may bring chaos, it can also spur change. A lot will ride on how we handle the crisis.

This year, we launched the BRICS Initiative on Enhancing Cooperation on Supply Chains and the Initiative on Trade and Investment for Sustainable Development, adopted the Agreement on Cooperation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters and the Strategy on Food Security Cooperation, and held a High-level Meeting on Climate Change for the first time. We should make good use of these new platforms to boost connectivity of industrial and supply chains and jointly meet challenges in poverty reduction, agriculture, energy, logistics and other fields. We should support greater development of the New Development Bank and a steady process to admit new members, and improve the Contingent Reserve Arrangement to cement the BRICS financial safety net and firewall. We should also expand BRICS cooperation on cross-border payment and credit rating to facilitate trade, investment and financing among our countries.

Last year, I put forward the Global Development Initiative (GDI), which aims to re-energize the implementation of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and build a global community of development. China stands ready to work with BRICS partners to add more substance to the GDI and contribute to stronger, greener and healthier global development.

Third, we need to uphold the pioneering spirit and innovation and unleash the potential and vitality of cooperation. Those who seize the opportunities of the new economy, such as big data and artificial intelligence, are in sync with the pulse of the times. Those who seek to create monopoly, blockade and barriers in science and technology in order to disrupt other countries' innovation and development and hold on to their dominant position are doomed to fail.

We need to improve global science and technology governance and allow more people to access and benefit from the fruits of scientific and technological advances. This year, we have accelerated the building of the BRICS Partnership on New Industrial Revolution Innovation Center in Xiamen, hosted the Forum on the Development of Industrial Internet and Digital Manufacturing and the Forum on Big Data for Sustainable Development, reached the Digital Economy Partnership Framework, issued the Initiative for Cooperation on Digitalization of Manufacturing, and established a network of technology transfer centers and an aerospace cooperation mechanism. All these have opened new channels for closer industrial policy coordination between BRICS countries. Recognizing the importance of talents in the digital age, we have set up the Alliance for Vocational Education, and organized the Skills Competition and the Women Innovation Contest to build a talent pool for stronger BRICS cooperation on innovation and entrepreneurship.

Fourth, we need to uphold openness and inclusiveness and pool collective wisdom and strength. BRICS countries gather not in a closed club or an exclusive circle, but a big family of mutual support and a partnership for win-win cooperation. At the Xiamen Summit in 2017, I proposed the "BRICS Plus" cooperation approach. Over the past five years, "BRICS Plus" cooperation has deepened and expanded, setting a prime example of South-South cooperation and seeking strength through unity among emerging markets and developing countries.

Under the new circumstances, it is all the more important for BRICS countries to pursue development with open doors and boost cooperation with open arms. This year we, for the first time, invited guest countries to attend the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting. The newly established BRICS Vaccine R&D Center has an unequivocal commitment to openness. Step by step, we have organized a variety of "BRICS Plus" events in such areas as scientific and technological innovation, people-to-people exchanges and sustainable development. All these provide new platforms for cooperation among emerging markets and developing countries.

In recent years, many countries have asked to join the BRICS cooperation mechanism. Bringing in fresh blood will inject new vitality into BRICS cooperation and increase the representativeness and influence of BRICS. This year we have, on separate occasions, had in-depth discussions on the question of membership expansion. It is important to advance this process to allow like-minded partners to become part of the BRICS family at an early date.

Colleagues,

As representatives of emerging markets and developing countries, we must make the right decision and take responsible actions at this critical juncture of history. What we do will have a significant impact on the world. Let us stay united, pool strength and forge ahead to build a community with a shared future for mankind and jointly create a bright future for humanity.

Thank you.

Xi stresses inclusiveness, openness for more prosperous future   12%

BEIJING, June 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday a more open and inclusive world will create greater development opportunities for all countries and deliver a more prosperous future for all.

"We should be inclusive and jointly expand openness and integration," Xi said while delivering a keynote speech in virtual format at the opening ceremony of the BRICS Business Forum.

Economic globalization has faced headwinds and countercurrents for some time. Some countries attempt to decouple with others, sever supply chains, and build "a small yard with high fences," Xi said.

There is widespread concern in the international community that should such a tendency continue, the global economy will become compartmentalized and mutually exclusive, Xi said.

Economic globalization is a response to development of productivity and, as such, represents an unstoppable historical trend. Anyone who attempts to turn back the wheel of history and block others' way will only have his own path blocked, he said.

"We should stay committed to openness and inclusiveness, eliminate all barriers to the development of productivity, and steer globalization in the right direction," Xi said, adding that this will boost the free flow of capital and technology, unleash the full potential of innovation and creativity, and foster synergy in boosting global economic growth.

Xi called for upholding the WTO-centered multilateral trading system, removing barriers to trade, investment and technology, and keeping the global economy open.

"We should promote extensive consultation and joint contribution to deliver shared benefits, enhance global economic governance, and increase the representation and say of emerging markets and developing countries," Xi said. "This will ensure that all countries enjoy equal rights, follow the rules as equals, and share equal opportunities."

Full Text: Chinese President Xi Jinping's keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the BRICS Business Forum  

BEIJING, June 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the opening ceremony of the BRICS Business Forum in virtual format and delivered a keynote speech titled "Keep Abreast of the Trend of the Times to Shape a Bright Future" on Wednesday.

Following is the full text of the speech:

Keep Abreast of the Trend of the

Times to Shape a Bright Future

Keynote Speech by H.E. Xi Jinping

President of the People's Republic of China

At the Opening Ceremony of the BRICS Business Forum

22 June 2022

Dear Colleagues,

Members of the Business Community,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends,

I am glad to attend the BRICS Business Forum, and I wish to extend a warm welcome to all of you.

Right now, our world is facing drastic changes and a pandemic both unseen in a century. Various security challenges keep emerging. The world economy still faces strong headwinds on its path toward recovery, and global development has suffered major setbacks. Where is the world headed: Peace or war? Progress or regression? Openness or isolation? Cooperation or confrontation? These are choices of the times that we are confronted with.

Human history, like a river, keeps surging forward, with moments of both calm waters and huge waves. Despite changes in an evolving global environment, the historical trend of openness and development will not reverse course, and our shared desire to meet challenges together through cooperation will remain as strong as ever. We should stand high and not allow ourselves to be distracted by fleeting clouds, and we should have a keen appreciation of the law governing the advance of history. We should refuse to be led astray by any turn of events or intimidated by any risk. We should rise to challenge and forge ahead with resolve toward the goal of building a community with a shared future for mankind.

First, we should embrace solidarity and coordination and jointly maintain world peace and stability. We in China believe that "history, if not forgotten, can serve as a guide for the future". In the past century, humanity have gone through the scourge of two world wars and the dark shadow of the Cold War. The tragedies of the past tell us that hegemony, group politics and bloc confrontation bring no peace or security; they only lead to wars and conflicts. The Ukraine crisis is another wake-up call for all in the world. It reminds us that blind faith in the so-called "position of strength" and attempts to expand military alliances and seek one's own security at the expense of others will only land oneself in a security dilemma.

History tells us that peace, which is the common cause of humanity, should be pursued and defended by all. Only when we all cherish and uphold peace and never forget the painful lessons of war can there be hope of peace. Facing a volatile and unstable world, we should stay true to the pledge of the UN Charter and fulfill the mission of maintaining peace. Not long ago, I put forward the Global Security Initiative, calling on all countries to stay committed to the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security; stay committed to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries; stay committed to abiding by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter; stay committed to taking the legitimate security concerns of all countries seriously; stay committed to peacefully resolving differences and disputes between countries through dialogue and consultation; and stay committed to maintaining security in both traditional and non-traditional domains. We in the international community should reject zero-sum games and jointly oppose hegemonism and power politics. We should build a new type of international relations based on mutual respect, fairness, justice and win-win cooperation. We should be clear that we are a community in which all countries share a common stake, and we should see that the light of peace will reach all corners of the world.

Second, we should reach out to each other and jointly promote sustainable global development. Development holds the key to solving various difficult problems and delivering better lives to the people. Today, the global development process has hit major roadblocks, the momentum of international development cooperation is being weakened, and development gap between the North and the South keeps widening. As a result, the global efforts to implement the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development have suffered major setbacks. Almost 1.2 billion people in nearly 70 countries are confronted with COVID-19, food, energy and debt crises. What has been achieved in decades of global poverty reduction efforts could be lost.

Last year, I put forward the Global Development Initiative, and I called on all countries to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, forge united, equal, balanced and inclusive global development partnership, and promote cooperation in a wide range of areas such as poverty reduction, public health, education, digital connectivity and industrialization. We should deepen cooperation to better safeguard food and energy security. We should seize opportunities presented by the new scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, and promote the flow of factors of production that enable innovation globally. We should help developing countries speed up development of the digital economy and green transformation. We should also engage in cooperation on COVID-19 response and provide more anti-COVID medicines to developing countries so as to beat the virus at an early date.

In two days, China will host the High-level Dialogue on Global Development to discuss ways to promote global development. We should respond to people's concerns, pursue the larger interests of all countries, and steer global development to a new era to deliver benefit to all.

Third, we should tide over difficulties together and jointly pursue win-win cooperation. At present, some important industrial and supply chains are suffering from deliberate disruptions, commodity prices remain high and are fluctuating, global inflation keeps rising, the international financial market is in turmoil, and global economic recovery is losing steam. People have reason to be concerned that the world economy might slip into a crisis.

At this critical juncture, tiding over difficulties together and pursuing cooperation is the only way for us to forestall an economic crisis. We should come together with a united purpose and strengthen macroeconomic policy coordination to prevent the slowdown and even halt of the global recovery. Major developed countries should adopt responsible economic policies and avoid negative policy spillovers that may take a heavy toll on developing countries. It has been proved time and again that sanctions are a boomerang and a double-edged sword. To politicize the global economy and turn it into one's tool or weapon, and willfully impose sanctions by using one's primary position in the international financial and monetary systems will only end up hurting one's own interests as well as those of others, and inflict suffering on everyone.

Fourth, we should be inclusive and jointly expand openness and integration. The rapid economic globalization that we have seen since the end of the Cold War has greatly boosted the movement of goods and capital and advances in technology and civilization. A more open and inclusive world will create greater development opportunities for all and deliver a more prosperous future for all.

For some time, however, economic globalization has faced headwinds and countercurrents. Some countries attempt to decouple with others, sever supply chains and build "a small yard with high fences". There is widespread concern in the international community that should such a tendency continue, the global economy will become compartmentalized and mutually exclusive. Economic globalization is a response to development of productivity and, as such, represents an unstoppable historical trend. Anyone who attempts to turn back the wheel of history and block others' way will only have his own path blocked.

As an ancient Chinese saying goes, "Constant piling up of earth makes Mount Tai great; ceaseless inflow of rivers makes the ocean deep." Inclusiveness, shared benefits and win-win outcomes is what we should pursue. We should stay committed to openness and inclusiveness, eliminate all barriers to the development of productivity, and steer globalization in the right direction. This will boost the free flow of capital and technology, unleash the full potential of innovation and creativity, and foster synergy in boosting global economic growth. We should uphold the WTO-centered multilateral trading system, remove barriers to trade, investment and technology, and keep the global economy open. We should promote extensive consultation and joint contribution to deliver shared benefits, enhance global economic governance, and increase the representation and say of emerging markets and developing countries. This will ensure that all countries enjoy equal rights, follow the rules as equals, and share equal opportunities.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends,

This year, facing a complicated and challenging domestic and international environment for development, China has risen to various challenges and taken well-coordinated steps to respond to COVID-19 and pursue economic and social development. Putting the people and their lives first, China has built a strong line of defense against the virus, and consolidated the gains made in COVID-19 response. Thanks to these efforts, we have protected people's lives and health and ensured overall stable performance in economic and social development to the maximum extent possible. We will step up macroeconomic policy adjustment, and adopt more forceful measures to deliver the economic and social development goals for the whole year and minimize the impact of COVID-19.

In the second half of this year, the Communist Party of China will convene its 20th National Congress, which will chart the course for the next phase of China's development. We will ground our efforts in the new development stage, follow the new development philosophy, foster a new development paradigm and strive to achieve high-quality development. China will continue to pursue opening-up against higher standards, develop new systems for a higher-standard open economy, and continue to foster a market- and law-based and internationalized business environment. I warmly welcome you to invest and do business in China, strengthen business cooperation with China, and share in China's development opportunities.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends,

The BRICS mechanism is an important cooperation platform for emerging markets and developing countries. The business community is a dynamic force driving BRICS' effective cooperation. Over the years, you in the business communities of BRICS countries have kept exploring new ground, unlocked the potential of cooperation among the five countries, and made important contribution to the development of BRICS countries. Your efforts deserve full recognition.

BRICS cooperation has now entered a new stage of high-quality development. I hope that you business leaders will continue to act with tenacity and in a pioneering spirit, and champion open, innovative and shared development so as to add new impetus to BRICS cooperation. You should tap into the complementarity of BRICS countries' diverse economic structures and resources, upgrade cooperation on trade, investment and finance, expand cooperation on cross-border e-commerce, logistics, local currencies and credit rating, and keep industrial and supply chains safe and unclogged. I hope you will actively participate in building the BRICS Partnership on New Industrial Revolution, strengthen cooperation on digital economy, smart manufacturing, clean energy and low-carbon technology, and support the industrial restructuring and upgrading in BRICS countries. I hope you will advance cooperation on energy, food, infrastructure and skill training, fulfill your social responsibilities, and see that more benefits of development will reach everyone in a more equitable way.

I am convinced that as long as we hoist high the sail of mutual benefit and win-win and keep a steady hand on the tiller of solidarity and cooperation, we will break waves and steer the giant ship of BRICS countries toward a brighter future!

To conclude, I wish the BRICS Business Forum a full success!

Thank you.

Xi encourages PLA infantry academy students to contribute to strengthening armed forces  

BEIJING, June 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has encouraged students from the Army Infantry Academy of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to contribute to the cause of strengthening China's armed forces.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a letter replying to all students of the academy who are graduating this year.

Remarking on their earnest efforts in their studies and training as well as their excellent performances in all fields, Xi extended his congratulations to the cadets, who will graduate and begin their military careers.

Xi commended their aspirations to make achievements in tough and remote regions, on the training and combat readiness frontlines, and in areas where they are needed most by the Party and the people.

"I hope you can stay firm in your convictions, keep your feet firmly on the ground, complete comprehensive training, make dedicated efforts in the military, keep improving yourselves and make contributions to the cause of strengthening the armed forces," Xi wrote in the letter.

Xi has attached great importance to education provided by military academies and the cultivation of military personnel. He gave instructions on improving work performances in educating cadets during a visit to the academy in May 2019.

The academy will send off more than 1,100 graduates in 2022. All of the graduates passed their final exams, and over 60 excelled in national or PLA-wide competitions.

The graduates recently wrote to Xi, reporting their performances in their studies and training, and expressing their determination to work in primary-level units and strive for stronger armed forces.

Xi's speech at 25th SPIEF promotes global solidarity, prosperity, experts say   6%

BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday addressed the plenary session of the 25th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) in virtual format, in which he put forward four proposals to advance global solidarity for sustainable development.

Experts and scholars from many countries believe that at a time when the world is facing multiple challenges, Xi's remarks inject positive energy into the world's joint making of a peaceful, prosperous and bright future.

Amadou Diop, a Senegalese expert on China, said Xi's speech once again demonstrated China's commitment to international solidarity and the country's willingness to promote common prosperity and maintain world peace.

Cavince Adhere, a Kenya-based international relations scholar, said Xi's address reflects the aspirations of many developing countries around the world. He called on countries in the Global South to heed Xi's call for closer coordination and jointly find sustainable solutions to the prevailing challenges.

"Beijing's readiness to promote high-quality development, expand high-standard opening-up, as well as sustain the Belt and Road momentum affirms China's resolve to foot its international responsibilities," the scholar added.

Joseph Matthews, a senior professor at the BELTEI International University in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, said Xi's remarks truly reflected China's unwavering commitment to upholding multilateralism and win-win cooperation, as well as promoting global economic recovery and common development.

As a global economic stabilizer, China has been playing a key role in helping remove trade barriers and keep global industrial and supply chains stable, Matthews noted.

Muhammad Asif Noor, director of the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies in Pakistan, said Xi's proposals are very fair to solve the common challenges such as uncertainty, poverty, inequality and financial crises facing the global community.

He called for global efforts to strengthen development partnerships and increase assistance for other countries in development projects.

Andrei Ostrovsky, head of the Center for China Socio-Economic Research at the Institute of Far Eastern Studies under the Russian Academy of Sciences, said China has been committed to helping build an open world economy, adding that under the current conditions, the Belt and Road Initiative is of particular importance.

Ahmed Kandil, an Egyptian expert on Asian affairs and head of the International Studies Unit at the Al-Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies, said he completely agrees with Xi's proposal to cooperate on innovation and make the fruits of innovation shared by all, adding that China's voice is important as it speaks up for the developing countries.

"It calls for continuous dialogues and exchanges among thinkers, scientists, research centers to lead to creating new technologies that help the progress of humanity and overcoming the challenges and threats facing the world today," the expert said.

Chinese president addresses 25th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum   4%

BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday attended and addressed the plenary session of the 25th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in virtual format upon invitation.

Xi pointed out that the world is faced with major changes and a pandemic both unseen in a century, economic globalization is facing headwinds, and there are unprecedented challenges to the implementation of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. At a time when the international community is so keen about achieving more equitable, sustainable and secure development, we should seize opportunities, meet challenges head-on, and work on the implementation of the Global Development Initiative to build a shared future of peace and prosperity.

Xi said that, first, we need to foster an enabling environment for development. It is important that we follow true multilateralism, respect and support all countries' pursuit of development paths suited to their national conditions, build an open world economy, and increase the representation and voice of emerging markets and developing countries in global economic governance, with a view to making global development more balanced, coordinated and inclusive.

Second, we need to strengthen development partnerships. It is important that we enhance North-South and South-South cooperation, pool cooperation resources, platforms and networks of development partnerships, and scale up development assistance, in order to forge greater synergy for development and close the development gap.

Third, we need to advance economic globalization. It is important that we strengthen "soft connectivity" of development policies and international rules and standards, reject attempts at decoupling, supply disruption, unilateral sanctions and maximum pressure, remove trade barriers, keep global industrial and supply chains stable, tackle the worsening food and energy crises, and revive the world economy.

Fourth, we need to pursue innovation-driven development. It is important that we unlock the potential of innovation-driven growth, improve the rules and institutional environment for innovation, break down barriers to the flow of innovation factors, deepen exchanges and cooperation on innovation, facilitate deeper integration of science and technology into the economy, and make sure the fruits of innovation are shared by all.

Xi pointed out that the fundamentals of the Chinese economy - its strong resilience, enormous potential and long-term sustainability - remain unchanged. "We have full confidence in China's economic development. China will continue to promote high-quality development, expand high-standard opening-up with firm resolve, and pursue high-quality Belt and Road cooperation," he said.

China stands ready to work with Russia and all other countries to explore development prospects, share growth opportunities, and make new contributions to deepening global development cooperation and building a community with a shared future for mankind, Xi added.

The plenary session of the 25th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum was held in an online plus offline format in St. Petersburg, Russia on June 17. Russian President Vladimir Putin, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart K. Tokayev, among others, attended the event.

President Xi to host 14th BRICS Summit   -3%

BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping will host the 14th BRICS Summit in Beijing on June 23, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson announced here Friday.

Spokesperson Hua Chunying said the Summit will be held in virtual format under the theme of "Foster High-quality BRICS Partnership, Usher in a New Era for Global Development."

Hua said President Xi will host the High-level Dialogue on Global Development in Beijing on June 24. The Dialogue will be held in virtual format under the theme of "Foster a Global Development Partnership for the New Era to Jointly Implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," and BRICS leaders and leaders of relevant emerging markets and developing countries will attend the event.

President Xi will attend the opening ceremony of the BRICS Business Forum in virtual format and deliver a keynote speech on June 22, Hua said.