In a world increasingly interconnected and mutually reliant, the urgency for enhanced global cooperation has never been more pronounced. During a compelling discourse at the World Economic Forum, a leading Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang initiates a clarion call for bolstered intergovernmental collaboration.
Addressing an audience of political and economic heavyweights, he underscores the perils posed by restrictive trade practices that undermine economic stability and put the brakes on global progress.
As he articulates a vision for greener development and equitable North-South partnerships, it is evident that navigating the intricate web of international relations requires a renewed commitment to dialogue and diplomacy.
From addressing climate change repercussions to negotiating the complex terrain of artificial intelligence, the Chinese official’s plea for unity and cooperation is a timely reminder that, in the dance of global dynamics, every step towards collaboration is a step away from contention and closer to collective prosperity.
A call to enhance cooperation.
The Chinese official, who has been attending the World Economic Forum since 2017, began his speech by calling for broader coordination of global economic policies and promoting international collaboration in green development and improving cooperation between northern and southern countries.
On the other hand, the Chinese Prime Minister condemned “discriminatory trade barriers,” affirming that they pose a threat to the global economy, indirectly referring to the United States and the European Union.
He warned against the emergence of:
“new discriminatory trade and investment measures” every year, emphasizing that “any obstacles or hurdles can slow down or halt the wheels of the global economy.”
While no specific country was mentioned, his speech reminds me of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s words in 2017, when he criticized protectionist policies following Donald Trump’s election as President of the United States.
In recent years, there have been increasing trade disputes between Beijing on one side and the United States and the European Union on the other, particularly regarding advanced technology and clean energy.
The level of trade tension between the United States and China increased during the Trump administration and continues under the Democratic administration of Joe Biden.
He mentioned in this regard that:
“There are many examples of undermining the mutual trust between one party and others.”
In an effort to alleviate global concerns about the slow recovery of the Chinese economy following the “COVID-19” pandemic, he said that his country’s contribution to global growth remained steady at around 30 percent, and that its wealth of scientific and technological talents was the most extensive in the world.
He added:
“Today, we are working on pushing for the comprehensive upgrade of the Chinese economy through high-quality development.”
Climate change losses
In addition to focusing on the Chinese economy, the first day of Davos witnessed significant attention towards the growing challenges of climate change.
A new analysis by the World Economic Forum warned that severe natural disasters linked to climate change could result in the deaths of up to 14.5 million people and economic losses worth $12.5 trillion by 2050. The report also stated that global healthcare systems will bear additional costs totaling $1.1 trillion.
Trade barriers
Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized to the world’s top political and business figures at Davos on Tuesday that “discriminatory trade barriers pose a threat to the global economy,” in a clear reference to the United States.
Statements came from me as the participants of the 54th World Economic Forum, which is held annually, discuss a range of risks facing the world, particularly the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, climate change, and the rapid development of artificial intelligence.
I share the limelight in Davos with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who attended the forum in person for the first time, in an effort to garner support from Kyiv’s allies after two years of war with Russia.
However, the highest-ranking Chinese official attending the World Economic Forum since 2017 did not address the elections and instead chose to focus on trade, his country’s economy, and artificial intelligence.
He pointed out that :
“New discriminatory trade and investment measures emerge every year, and any obstacles or barriers could slow down or halt the global economy.”
Although no specific countries were mentioned, Beijing has become embroiled in disputes with the United States and the European Union over trade in recent years, particularly regarding advanced technology and clean energy.
High level of stress
The level of trade tension between the United States and China had increased during Donald Trump’s era, and this continued under President Joe Biden.
In October, the United States announced tighter restrictions on exports of advanced electronic chips used for artificial intelligence, causing anger in Beijing.
Meanwhile, the European Union has launched an investigation into the support provided by the Chinese government to the electric vehicle manufacturing sector.
He said:
“There are numerous examples of undermining the mutual trust between individuals without mentioning a specific country.”
However, American and European companies have always complained about the obstacles they face in conducting any business in an atmosphere founded on equality in China.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) also dominated the discussions, as numerous examples last year demonstrated the remarkable progress achieved by the sector.
Despite the prevailing enthusiasm in this regard, the threats posed by artificial intelligence have also become a cause for concern.
Last week, the World Economic Forum indicated that the deceptive tactics driven by artificial intelligence before elections in various countries, including the United States, constitute one of the biggest global threats during the current and upcoming years.
He stressed to me the importance of establishing a “red line” regarding the development of artificial intelligence to ensure that the benefits it brings are not limited to a “small group of people”.
He emphasized that:
“Good governance is necessary for this sector, and the world should avoid “camp-based divisions or confrontation regarding artificial intelligence.”
(AFP)
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