Calling for greater global economic integration while warning against creating further tensions and divisions, Chinese President Xi Jinping used the annual Boao Forum for Asia to make anew a virtual pitch for China's geopolitical vision.
During his speech normally hosted at Boao on the island of Hainan, Xi said international affairs should be approached with negotiations and discussions. He said transforming the "future destiny of the world" should include all countries in the decision-making.
"When countries get along with each other, we must put equality, mutual respect and mutual trust in the forefront, and it is unpopular to arrogantly instruct other countries and interfere in internal affairs," he said in a keynote speech.
Xi also indirectly poked the U.S.
"One or a few countries shouldn't impose their rules on others, and the world shouldn't be led on by the unilateralism of a few countries. Bossing others around or meddling in others' internal affairs will not get one any support," Xi said.
More than 2,000 officials and executives attended this year's Boao Forum. Global leaders who could not make it to the event also attended via video link. Some of the more notable attendees included officials of the United Nations and the heads of the International Monetary Fund.
Last year's Boao Forum was canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak. Holding this year's event has been seen as China's signal that it is reopening for business, analysts said. The forum has been described as Asia's version of the World Economic Forum, which is held each year in Davos.
At this year's Boao Forum, several executives of top American corporations were in attendance. This included Tim Cook, Elon Musk, and Blackstone Group's Stephen Schwarzman.
