In a packed hall at the United Nations on September 23, the Chinese premier Li Qiang delivered a rallying call for more inclusive and sustainable global growth under the banner of the Global Development Initiative (GDI). Since its launch in 2021, the GDI has rallied over 130 countries and international organizations, transforming it into a high-profile platform for shared progress.
Drawing on eight decades of UN-led development efforts, Li Qiang emphasized four strategic pillars to jumpstart the path toward the UN 2030 Agenda:
- Open and Stable Environment: Rejecting protectionism, the premier argued that free trade and multilateral cooperation remain essential to strengthen economic resilience.
- Balanced Partnerships: He urged developed and developing nations to fulfill financing pledges and close the North-South gap through more inclusive policies.
- Innovation-Driven Growth: From AI to big data, Li Qiang called for technology transfer and digital capacity building to ensure equitable access to the next wave of breakthroughs.
- Green and Low-Carbon Transition: Climate and ecosystems know no borders—the premier highlighted cooperation in new energy, resource efficiency and circular economy models.
Backing words with action, China has mobilized over US$23 billion and launched more than 1,800 cooperation projects under the GDI in the past four years. Looking ahead, the Chinese premier announced plans for another 2,000 community-focused livelihood projects, a Digital South fund, an AI+ International Cooperation Initiative, a sustainable development satellite alliance and 200 maritime development partnerships—plus a Clean Stove Project for rural communities.
As the clock ticks toward the 2030 deadline, the GDI's push for open cooperation, green solutions and technological inclusion offers a fresh blueprint for young global citizens, entrepreneurs and changemakers to engage in building a more dynamic and equitable world.
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Full text: Li Qiang addresses meeting on Global Development Initiative
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