Chinese President Xi Jinping received widespread praise from scholars and officials during his recent speech at the BRICS Plus leaders' dialogue. Xi emphasized the critical role of global peace, advocated for reforms in global economic governance, and highlighted the importance of fostering dialogue among different civilizations to enhance the prosperity of the Global South.
In his address, Xi underscored that the collective advancement of Global South countries toward modernization is a monumental achievement in world history. He acknowledged the severe challenges to global peace but affirmed that the path to prosperity for the Global South, while complex, is achievable.
Xi urged BRICS Plus countries to pursue common security, development, and harmony among civilizations. The BRICS Plus mechanism, initiated by Xi in 2017, aims to expand cooperation with more developing nations and emerging economies, thereby amplifying the Global South's voice on the international stage.
Trevor Hambayi, a Zambian economist, praised Xi's commitment to the Global South, noting that the Global Development Initiative (GDI) has mobilized nearly $20 billion in funding and launched over 1,100 projects. The GDI, proposed by Xi in 2021 at the UN General Assembly, seeks to foster international consensus on development and cultivate new drivers for global progress.
Xi also announced the establishment of a World Smart Customs Community Portal and a BRICS Customs Center of Excellence, encouraging active participation from all nations. Ibrahim Hashem, former advisor to the chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office, highlighted China's role in advocating for peace and dialogue, including efforts to facilitate diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran and promote reconciliation among Palestinian factions.
Luis Delgado, an academic from Venezuela, emphasized the strong interest of Global South countries in Xi's initiatives, which he believes represent a new form of international collaboration based on dialogue, respect for diversity, equality, and fair trade. Evandro Carvalho, a law professor from Brazil, expressed confidence in BRICS' future, noting that China's focus on cooperation and communication is crucial for bridging differences among nations.
Xi concluded his speech by pledging the establishment of a Global South Think Tanks Alliance to promote people-to-people exchanges and experience-sharing in governance, reinforcing the importance of harmonious coexistence among diverse civilizations.
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Scholars, officials applaud Xi's advocacy for Global South prosperity
cgtn.com
