In a significant display of international collaboration, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the 10th ministerial meeting of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum. The event, attended by key leaders from various Arab nations, underscored the deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership between China and the Arab states.
President Xi highlighted the enduring bonds forged along the ancient Silk Road and the mutual efforts in national development and liberation struggles. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made since the 2022 Summit in Riyadh and announced plans to host the next Summit in China in 2026, marking another milestone in bilateral relations.
Emphasizing the importance of building a China-Arab community with a shared future, Xi outlined several key frameworks to enhance cooperation. These include:
- Innovation: Establishing joint laboratories in areas like AI, green development, and space technology.
- Investment and Finance: Expanding financial cooperation, including the issuance of panda bonds and collaboration on digital currencies.
- Energy: Strengthening strategic cooperation in oil, gas, and renewable energy projects.
- Economic and Trade Ties: Accelerating free trade agreements and expanding non-energy imports, particularly agricultural products.
- People-to-People Exchanges: Creating platforms for cultural and academic collaborations and aiming for 10 million tourist visits in five years.
Addressing global challenges, President Xi reaffirmed China's commitment to peace and stability, particularly in the Middle East. He voiced strong support for resolving the Palestine-Israel conflict through a two-state solution and announced substantial humanitarian aid for Gaza, including an additional 500 million yuan and a $3 million donation to the UN Relief and Works Agency.
The forum concluded with a call to continue fostering the spirit of China-Arab friendship, aiming to build a better and more prosperous future together. President Xi’s address not only reinforced existing partnerships but also set a forward-looking agenda for sustainable and inclusive growth, innovation, and peace in the region.
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Full text: Xi's speech at China-Arab States Cooperation Forum opening
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