We meet at a time of major development, transformation and adjustment in the world. While the international environment remains generally stable, profound shifts are taking place in the relations between major countries. Continued advancement of economic globalization is accompanied by mounting protectionism and populist ideologies. Accelerated movement toward a multipolar world goes hand in hand with intensifying geopolitical rivalry and regional turbulence. The emergence of new technologies and new thinkings is profoundly changing the way people live and work. A review of the past century has led some to express fears that the post-war international order is teetering on the edge and that humanity has once again come to a crossroads.
Under such circumstances, one must look further back into history to gain a longer-term perspective for the future. The history of mankind is all about war and peace, survival and development. For several thousand years, countries and nations developed largely in mutual isolation. They rose and fell though repeated conquest and resistance in their own time and space.
More than 500 years ago, the Age of Discovery brought about the first round of globalization in human history and the colonial expansion of the western Mediterranean Civilization. The international order established after the end of Second World War contributed to peace and stability in the following decades, but the world remained largely divided into opposing camps and blocs. The end of the Cold War and the emergence of new technologies created conditions for a new round of economic globalization where multinationals allocated resources globally to maximize profits. While this process generated enormous benefits for the developed countries, it also led to the collective rise of the developing countries and emerging economies, and linked the interests of all countries ever closer, making the world a truly global village.
We live in an age where people cherish peace and yearn for development, and economic globalization represents the trend of our times. There will always be twists and turns on the road ahead, but the greatest fear is fear itself in the face of challenges. We must stay committed to peaceful development, unswervingly advance economic globalization and jointly build an international order that is more fair, equitable, stable and effective.
People’s aspirations for a better life are what drive us forward. China cannot develop by shutting itself from the world, nor can the world develop by shutting out China. Without a peaceful and stable international environment, there will be no development to speak of. China will continue to run its own affairs well and maintain strategic focus and confidence in response to external uncertainties. Committed to the path of peaceful development, China will never seek hegemony, expansion or sphere of influence no matter how the international situation changes or how developed it may become.
In its eight-year history, the World Peace Forum has gained growing influence. At this year’s Forum, experts from all over the world will have in-depth discussions on stabilizing the international order. I hope you will provide each other much food for thought, build consensus, and contribute your wisdom to world peace and development.