Development remains the enduring goal of human society, and sharing its benefits is a key condition for building a better and more prosperous world. The 3rd High-Level Conference of the Global Shared Development Action Forum was held in Beijing on April 21–22 under the theme “Advancing a Community with a Shared Future for Global Development through an Action-Oriented Approach.” More than 600 representatives from over 140 countries, international and regional organizations, and specialized institutions participated both online and offline to discuss global development plans.
Participants noted that China’s proposed Global Development Initiative prioritizes development, promotes inclusive mutual learning as a bridge, and upholds win-win cooperation as a core principle. In essence, it has injected Chinese momentum into global development efforts. A Platform for Knowledge Sharing and Cooperation The Global Development Initiative (GDI) was proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping during the general debate of the 76th UN General Assembly in September 2021. It has played a leading role in advancing shared development and building a community with a shared future for mankind. The previous two high-level meetings of the forum were held in 2023 and 2024. Over the past five years, through collective efforts, the GDI has evolved from a Chinese proposal into an international consensus, expanding from a concept of cooperation into rich practical experience and delivering new achievements in global development. Development as the Foundation of Peace, Sovereignty and Dignity Mozambican President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi stated that development is the fundamental basis for achieving global peace and stability, safeguarding national sovereignty, and ensuring human dignity.
He emphasized China’s significant role in placing development at the center of the global agenda, focusing on poverty alleviation, food security, industrialization, innovation, and sustainable development. He added that Mozambique supports a partnership model based on mutual respect, mutual benefit, and practical results, and views cooperation with China as an important tool for transformation and development. Mozambique is ready to support China’s leadership in promoting global economic and social transformation under the GDI. Ghanaian
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo noted that the world faces multiple challenges that require collective wisdom, innovative thinking, and inclusive solutions. He praised the forum as a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and cooperation, highlighting Ghana’s appreciation for the GDI and related cooperation networks that help advance the development of the Global South. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the GDI reflects the belief that inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and equal opportunity are the foundations of sustainable peace and stability. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to strengthen cooperation with China under the GDI, the Belt and Road Initiative, and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to further enhance the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership. “China’s Development Is an Opportunity for the World” Three thematic sessions were held on digital transformation for high-quality development in the Global South, climate-resilient futures, and multilateral cooperation for sustainable development. Senegal’s Minister for Communication,Telecommunications and Digital Affairs, Moussa Sarr, said his visit to China last year left a deep impression, particularly China’s digital ecosystem in Hangzhou and sustainable development models in Tianjin. China’s leadership in climate change response was also highlighted, with projects such as early warning systems, wildfire prevention, and marine equipment support helping developing countries enhance their climate resilience.
Egyptian Meteorological Authority head Mahmoud Shaheen noted China’s strong commitment to global meteorological cooperation, citing the implementation of the “MAZU” early warning system in Egypt and training opportunities for Egyptian experts in China. World Meteorological Organization Secretary-General Celeste Saulo praised China’s rapid progress in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and satellite applications, expressing hope for expanded cooperation to benefit people globally. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) President Jin Liqun stated that developing countries face an annual infrastructure financing gap of around USD 4 trillion. He emphasized the need for global cooperation to increase investment and support infrastructure and productive sector development, noting that the GDI plays an important role in mobilizing multilateral efforts toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
Timor-Leste Deputy Prime Minister Mariano Assanami Sabino Lopes highlighted China’s development achievements, saying they have not only benefited its own people but also contributed significantly to global economic growth, technological progress, and development cooperation. Unity and Action for Development The conference noted that the world faces growing challenges, including widening development gaps, climate change, digital divides, and food and energy insecurity. It called for stronger unity and practical action. A key outcome was the release of a list of joint action plans covering eight major areas of the GDI, including 50 key initiatives such as the Global Women’s Capacity Building Center, agricultural innovation hubs in South and Southeast Asia, the next generation of the “MAZU” cloud platform, and the “Digital South” brand. Vanuatu’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Mark Ati praised the initiative for providing tangible benefits through cooperation, knowledge sharing, and development-aligned support. Bangladesh’s Economic Adviser Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir described China as Bangladesh’s most important development partner, highlighting major infrastructure progress including the Padma Bridge Rail Link. Grenada’s Minister for Tourism and Culture Adrian Thomas emphasized China’s consistent support for developing countries and expressed readiness to deepen cooperation in renewable energy, digital transformation, climate resilience, and healthcare. Source: China Media Group.