Chinese Premier Li Qiang has emphasized the importance of building an open world economy and called for united opposition to unilateralism and protectionism. He made these remarks during the plenary sessions of the 17th BRICS Summit held on Sunday and Monday.
Li highlighted the need to ensure the stability and efficiency of global industrial and supply chains. He also addressed key global issues including multilateralism, artificial intelligence, climate change, the environment, and public health.
Attended by BRICS leaders, partner countries, and international organization representatives, the sessions provided a platform for broad dialogue. Li noted that the global trade system and multilateral economic order are under severe strain, while economic recovery remains difficult. He urged BRICS nations to stay committed to their founding goals, uphold multilateralism, and work collectively, especially with the Global South, for international stability and development.
Li underscored the importance of adhering to World Trade Organization principles and advancing trade and investment liberalization among BRICS members and beyond.
He pointed out the launch of the China Center for Cooperation on Development of Special Economic Zones for BRICS countries, expressing willingness to collaborate with all partners to build a broad cooperation network.
Li further urged stronger international financial coordination, supporting the growth of the New Development Bank and inviting Global South countries to engage in China’s financial market. He also called for reforms at the World Bank and IMF to enhance the representation and influence of developing nations.
He proposed deeper BRICS cooperation in emerging sectors such as digital and green economies, with AI integration aimed at benefiting all industries and people. To support the Global South, Li announced China’s plan to provide 200 training programs over five years in digital economy and AI under the Global Development Initiative.
Li invited global participation in the World Artificial Intelligence Conference scheduled for later in July.
On climate and environmental issues, Li stressed the need for collective action and global consensus to tackle escalating challenges. He called for full implementation of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, adherence to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and expanded cooperation in clean energy and carbon markets.
He urged developed nations to fulfill their commitments to climate finance and technology sharing with developing countries.
Li emphasized the need for tangible outcomes in environmental protection and ecological balance. He advocated for better implementation of international conventions on biodiversity and desertification, along with a more systematic approach to environmental governance.
In the health sector, Li called for strengthened public health systems and reiterated support for the World Health Organization’s leading role. He encouraged making use of BRICS platforms like the Vaccine Research and Development Center to provide global health support, especially for the Global South.
Premier Li concluded by reaffirming China’s active global role and commitment to shared development goals. He pledged continued efforts toward greener, healthier, and more sustainable growth through practical actions and international cooperation.
The summit concluded with the adoption of two major declarations: the BRICS Leaders’ Statement on Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence and the BRICS Leaders’ Framework Declaration on Climate Finance.
Related Posts?
Chinese Premier calls on BRICS to lead global governance reform