At the Third Global South Think Tanks Dialogue in Shanghai, senior Chinese official Liu Haixing articulated China’s commitment to fostering unity among developing nations to pursue modernization goals. The event, themed “Seeking Strength through Unity: Responsibility and Action of the Global South,” brought together international representatives to address growing global challenges through coordinated action.
Liu, who heads the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, emphasized that China’s continued development and expanding openness would strengthen the collective capacity of Global South nations. He highlighted the need to implement the Global Development Initiative, stating that global prosperity cannot be achieved through widening wealth disparities. “We should place development at the core of the international agenda,” Liu asserted, “actively build an open world economy, and share opportunities through openness for win-win results.”
The conference occurred against the backdrop of China’s recent fourth plenary session, which endorsed the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30). This planning framework reinforces China’s dedication to enhancing South-South cooperation, increasing international aid, and providing global public goods to support modernization efforts across developing nations.
International participants echoed China’s commitment to collaborative development. Bhokin Bhalakula, former president of Thailand’s National Assembly, noted the transformative impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Southeast Asia. He cited specific examples including the China-Laos Railway, which he described as “a bridge to prosperity,” and Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor, which benefits from Chinese investment in smart logistics, electric vehicles, and biotechnology.
Zambian Vice-President Mutale Nalumango emphasized the significance of China’s modernization model for Africa, expressing strong support for President Xi Jinping’s four global initiatives covering development, security, civilization, and governance. She stressed that peace, security, and regional stability are essential foundations for creating shared future benefits and called for strengthened cooperation among Global South countries to promote sustainable development and a more equitable international order.