A Solemn Pledge Forged in History
In early September, Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke at the 80th anniversary of the victory over Japanese aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Reflecting on the 14-year struggle that cost 35 million lives, he emphasized that peace is a hard-won treasure. He called for nations to treat each other as equals and to safeguard harmony on the world stage.
From Memory to a Global Governance Initiative
Just two days earlier, at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization plus meeting in Tianjin, Xi introduced the Global Governance Initiative (GGI). The plan seeks to tackle modern threats to peace—ranging from economic disparity to environmental crises—by reforming global institutions and ensuring shared security.
Data from the United Nations highlights the urgency behind the GGI:
- 673 million people still faced hunger in 2024, while 2.6 billion cannot afford a healthy diet.
- The richest 1 percent own nearly half of all global wealth, leaving millions in precarious, low-income conditions.
- Up to 90 percent of young women in low-income countries remain offline, fueling a yawning digital divide.
Charting a Path Forward
By linking historical lessons with contemporary challenges, China is pitching ideas for a more just international system. The GGI aims to build consensus on shared security, narrow inequalities, and bridge digital gaps. As young global citizens and changemakers seek inclusive solutions, this vision offers fresh perspectives on collective action for a stable world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
