In sunny Hainan, the Boao Forum for Asia is buzzing with conversations about empowering the Global South. Amid palm trees, coconuts, and tropical sunshine, leaders and experts are rethinking global dynamics as developing nations, now representing over 40% of global GDP and driving 80% of growth, step into a more prominent role.
Since 2002, this annual gathering has been a cornerstone for Asia's economic integration. This year, the forum spotlights the need for a more inclusive international order. Strategy professor Carl Fey from BI Norwegian Business School remarked, "I think it is good that we are starting step by step to see the Global South playing a larger role in international politics." His words echo a wider call to elevate voices that have long been overlooked.
However, change is never simple. Former Undersecretary of State Michele Geraci noted, "It is very difficult for Western countries, Europe, and the U.S. to accept that they are not the prettiest girl in the room any longer." Meanwhile, Wang Xiaojun from the UN Office for South-South Cooperation stressed that the current international financial architecture must evolve to better serve developing nations, opening pathways to sustainable growth.
New alliances like BRICS are emerging as fresh counterbalances to traditional financial powers, while initiatives such as the Belt and Road are reshaping connectivity. Major infrastructure projects—spanning railways from the Chinese mainland’s Xinjiang to Kazakhstan and onward to Europe—are turning investments into engines of economic revival. As Geraci explained, "You create a self-developing model where you invest in infrastructure, then the economic growth can pay for the initial investment."
This dynamic forum in Boao marks a turning point. With a spirit as energetic as today’s trending hits and memes, the Global South is steering the conversation toward a fairer, more inclusive world order that listens to diverse voices. 🌍✨
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To empower the Global South, a more inclusive global order imperative
cgtn.com
