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Due to the combined impacts of major changes unseen in a century and once-in-acentury pandemic，the global economy is now facing headwinds，with the economic and trade frictions and conflicts further intensified，and the willingness to cooperate obviously reduced.As a result，the world has entered a period of turbulence and transformation，and mankind once again comes to a critical turning point in history.However，China firmly believes that the general trend towards opening-up and cooperation among countries has not changed，nor will it change.Looking back at history，opening-up and cooperation have played significant roles in enhancing the vitality of the global economy and trade.Considering the current circumstances，opening-up and cooperation are practical imperatives for promoting stable recovery of the world economy.For example，when considering specific commodity transactions，from placing orders and producing products，to modern logistics and fast customs clearance，and to mobile payment and precise delivery，each link highlights the increasingly important role of international industrial and supply chains，and all of them rely on the opening-up and cooperation in the international market.Mankind has long been emerged as a community of shared interests，a community of shared responsibility and a community with a shared future in which everyone's interests are closely entwined.
To promote the rapid growth of international trade scale，only by breaking down trade barriers between countries，promoting information transmission，process collaboration，and technology sharing between countries，and improving the efficiency of global resource allocation，can we provide strong impetus for the development of the world economy and achieve the common progress of the international community.As an important contributor to the recovery of global trade，China cannot develop without the rest of the world，and the world needs China for prosperity.China will only accelerate and not slow down in promoting the construction of an open global economy and a community with a shared future for mankind.
Working together is the choice of China to build a community with a shared future for mankind to the world.With the aim of deepening the BRI put forward by President XI Jinping，optimizing the global governance system and promoting global economic growth，RDI，which is committed to working with countries around the world to participate in the BRI through the principle of“extensive consultation，joint contribution and shared benefits”and with the main goal of“policy coordination，facilities connectivity，unimpeded trade，financial integration and people-to-people bonds”，has played a positive role in promoting friendly exchanges between China and other countries around the world following the principle of“value both friendship and justice as well as shared interests and place more importance on the former”，enhancing international connectivity，and implementing international cooperation projects.It provides a golden key for the occurrence of cooperation stories，win-win stories and development stories between China and countries along the Belt and Road and opens up a better future.
A drop of water can reflect the brilliance of the sun.It can be seen from the windows opened during international economic and trade cooperation that the efforts made by the“China Red”in continuously depicting the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind are recognized and responded to in the development shared by all countries around the world.For example，France believes that China is gradually becoming the biggest engine for global economic growth due to the continuous implementation of China's propositions and actions；Egypt shares a similar understanding and believes that the BRI is becoming the“new engine”for the development of China-Arab relations；Japan expressed its hope to overcome differences in values and promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation；Germany has demonstrated through practical actions that Germany-China cooperation creates a better future；Pakistan will further promote the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
Jean-Pierre RAFFARIN
from France
At present，the international landscape is undergoing profound changes.In this interdependent world，we must broaden our horizons，expand our thinking and build a community with a shared future.In the past five years，China-France comprehensive strategic partnership has maintained a high level of development.This cooperation model has been evolving for seven years since Joint Statement on China-France Third-Party Market Cooperation was issued on 2015.France is also a good partner of China with regard to the BRI，which is a great initiative dedicated to promoting international cooperation.Under the BRI framework，many investment projects have been steadily advanced and implemented.Furthermore，against the backdrop of resurging conflicts in the European continent，the pursuit of unilateralism by the United States，and the numerous destabilizing factors to the development of multilateral relations brought by geopolitical tensions，China is joining hands with many countries including France to safeguard multilateralism.In this context，sincere exchange and communication is a key step to enhance trust and reduce misgivings，and promote international cooperation.Over the past 58 years，China-France relations have witnessed not only periods of peaceful cooperation and friendship but also moments of tensions.However，the historical bond between the two peoples，characterized by mutual attraction，respect and appreciation，has propelled continuous cooperation and innovation in politics，economy，culture，science and education，sports，and non-governmental exchanges between the two peoples，giving rise to numerous remarkable stories.Although the world is undergoing major changes unseen in a century and the development of human society is facing many opportunities and challenges，we hold high the sail of cooperation and move forward hand in hand in the future-oriented journey.We firmly believe that China-France friendship will withstand any adversity，grow even stronger over time，and yield even more fruitful outcomes in the new era.
Looking back and summarizing China-France relations，China-France friendship can be described by three key words：“mutual respect，maintaining peace and creating a better future”.Respect and trust have been the pillars of the development of bilateral relations for many years，and peace is the common aspiration of the two peoples.We can also use three“concentric circles”to describe the important consensus in bilateral relations between France and China：
The first“concentric circle”is that France and China have similar“world views”.Despite different social systems，the two countries could uphold multilateralism with mutual respect and share the view that only dialogue leads to peace.To comply with the development of the times，improve the rules and framework of multilateralism and raise the voices of Asia and Africa in a multilateral system is the shared mission of both France and China.
Economic and trade cooperation between France and China is the second circle.French firms have been digging into the Chinese market and have continuously achieved success.Bilateral trade cooperation has been expanded into areas ranging from nuclear energy，aerospace and automaking to wine，luxury products and services.France is the first western country to participate in China's reform and opening-up process and benefit from it.Nowadays，the interests of both sides are increasingly closely linked.The bilateral import and export volume of goods between France and China in the period of January to July 2022 was USD 4.75 million，an increase of USD 587.6786 million and a year-on-year increase of 1.3% compared with the same period in 2021.China is the engine for global economic growth，and the world also needs China for prosperity.Weakening China's economic growth will delay the pace of global economic development.In the future，it is hoped that the economic and trade cooperation between the two countries will be“driven to a higher level”，deepening cooperation and expanding mutual benefit and win-win results.
The common diplomatic concepts shared by the two nations are regarded as the third“concentric circle”.Against the background of unilateralism and protectionism，France should adhere to the diplomatic principles of mutual respect，equal dialogue and mutual benefit，and continuously promote the France-China comprehensive strategic partnership.The friendship between France and China is a key factor for world stability.The world will become more peaceful and stable，as France and China talk more frequently to each other，and cooperate more closely.
China has made remarkable achievements in the past decade.It has eliminated the historical problem of absolute poverty，which is not only of great significance to itself，but also benefits the international community as a whole.China has explored effective practices and accumulated valuable experience through practice，which has important reference significance for other developing countries.
First，China has demonstrated strong and efficient organizational and mobilization capabilities in the face of the pandemic，which is the institutional advantage of China.China is taking its own path，the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics.Adhering to the leadership of the Communist Party of China is the most essential feature of the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics.Careful observers can easily find that the Communist Party of China is the pillar of the People's Republic of China and the backbone of the country.It is becoming more and more efficient and closer to the people through constant self-revolution.
Baige ZHAO，Chair of Advisory Committee of RDI，Meets with Jean-Pierre RAFFARIN，Honoree of the“Friendship Medal”of the P.R.C.and Former Prime Minister of France
Second，the interaction between China and the world is getting deeper and deeper.Over the past two decades since China joined the World Trade Organization，it has continuously expanded its degree of opening-up and made great strides in its economic and social development.“Reform and opening-up”has contributed to China's rapid development.China's development and opening-up are very important to China，Asia and the world.To a certain extent，all of us are partners，and we should think through problems in the logic of cooperation，which is the best way to deal with all kinds of tensions in the world at present.
Third，China is willing to cooperate with other countries for win-win results.There are many crises in the current world.The urgent task is to seek consensus and strengthen cooperation in the midst of confrontation and turmoil.All countries should establish a common vision for the future，work together to promote sci-tech innovation，and strengthen cooperation in global environmental protection，African development and public health.I look forward to continued cooperation between France and China on issues such as safeguarding multilateralism and coping with climate change，and working together to reduce tensions and promote world peace in the current world.
In recent years，China-France relations have developed well and China-France cooperation has yielded fruitful outcomes.The two sides continue to deepen cooperation and exchanges in economy，trade，investment，science and education，transportation，culture and other fields，and work together to cope with global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic，climate change and biodiversity conservation.These efforts have not only brought benefits to both countries and their peoples，but also have contributed to world peace，stability and prosperity.In 2022，the successful phone conversation between the heads of both countries strongly promoted the development of bilateral relations.Both France and China are permanent members of the United Nations Security Council.Both sides attach great importance to China-France relations，and hope that，through efforts，they will jointly promote new achievements in China-France cooperation in all fields and make new contributions to the healthy development of China-EU relations.
The practical cooperation between France and China on the BRI has also achieved many satisfactory results.For example，in 2015，China and France joined hands to promote Paris Agreement ，carried out fruitful cooperation in addressing climate change，and sent a signal of low-carbon transformation to the world，which is becoming a consensus on global green development.In 2016，the opening of the China-France international freight train route，the“Wuhan-Xinjiang-Europe”international container train，effectively promoted the trade exchanges between China and France in the fields of mechanical products，electronic products，chemical products，clothing，automotive products，wine and agricultural products，expanded a new important channel for the China-France cooperation on the BRI，and further widened the geographical and economic ties between Eurasian countries.In 2017，the Marseille International Trade City project，the largest Chinese merchant trade wholesale city in southern France，was completed，which became the largest trade wholesale city around the Mediterranean，providing a huge international platform for small and medium-sized enterprises from southern France，Spain，Italy，Eastern Europe，and North Africa.Many French enterprises actively participated in the 1 st China International Import Expo（2018）.Relying on the BRI and the China International Import Expo（CIIE），China-France cooperation has continuously incorporated new connotations and presented new highlights.During the Expo，many French enterprises further expanded their presence in the Chinese market，increased their exports to China with the help of this platform，and thus enriched the lives of Chinese people.
The practical cooperation between France and China under the BRI framework has received strong support from the political circles，business circles，academic circles and even cultural fields of France.Since the implementation of the BRI concept，which covers many fields such as economy，trade，investment and culture，it has made remarkable achievements in the world，showing its strong vitality.France is committed to building a multipolar world and supports initiatives conducive to promoting peaceful cooperation，prosperity and development.Therefore，France will actively participate in this important initiative to promote policy coordination and infrastructure connectivity between Asia and Europe.The BRI is an initiative to mobilize the whole world，which is not only of positive significance to China，but also of great significance to Central Asia and Europe，which seek connectivity with the world.It will further promote exchanges and cooperation in the fields of economy，trade，culture and academia in Eurasia.Additionally，France will actively cooperate with China in non-third-party markets by taking advantage of its development advantages and influence in Africa，and jointly expand the BRI Development.
Looking forward to the future，the BRI will further expand the scope for China-France cooperation.This great Silk Road project has enabled all of us to foster stronger connections between our societies，civilizations and particularly enterprises.We share a common aspiration to cooperate and find a variety of advanced and modern forms of cooperation on the basis of this great initiative，which is in line with our expectation for multilateralism in the 21 st century：Based on mutual respect and fair trade，create a twoway channel that can not only promote economic development，but also fulfill our environmental protection commitments.In fact，many issues can promote cooperation between countries，which is one of the grand goals of the BRI.Therefore，it is very important for us to reach an agreement and promote cooperation.In the future，the scope for cooperation between France and China can be further expanded in the following aspects under the background of the BRI：
The first is China International Import Expo（CIIE），which is an important measure to develop international exchanges and trade.Riding the wave of China International Import Expo（CIIE），representatives from all countries come together.It promotes the development of global trade，organizes contacts between companies，helps them sign contracts，reach orders and develop business，and then create more employment opportunities in their own countries.This cooperation has already been initiated in many fields，and we must ensure its continued advancements，so as to promote corporate cooperation，and make all parties benefit，achieve a win-win situation and find a balanced position during the development.This major international trade conference，which is established in Shanghai and held annually，should receive strong support and promotion from all parties involved，and become an important conference in international exchanges，especially in the field of China-EU trade.This is also an opportunity to urge us to assess the progress of cooperation once a year，and make adjustments and recoveries in response to the failure to meet the expectations of cooperative countries in individual fields.
The second is all the cooperation in building smart cities.We are all facing the global phenomenon of urbanization，which is rapidly developing，and we must work together to create the future cities.Cities in China and Europe have different historical backgrounds.European cities typically have rich cultural heritage and a long history，and，by preserving their residential environments，these cities have transformed their cultural heritage into tourism resources.Compared to major cities and metropolises in China，European cities tend to have a more moderate scale.However，in China，cities have different organizational models：they have become engines of economic and social development.It is through the cities'acceptance of migrant workers from rural areas that China has created the present-day economic value and lifted hundreds of millions of Chinese people out of poverty.Cities are the lever of development，but technology will give rise to new attitudes，new behaviors，new services and new organization modes for“living together”.We need a lot of cooperation on this topic as it is not only a social and group topic，but also a technical issue.Energy management，waste management and urban cleaning are very important aspects.All traditional modes of circulation，such as mobile，private and public transportations，will be profoundly influenced by new technologies，especially artificial intelligence.Health issues are also a top priority for people：how to enable remote diagnosis，and how to provide better nursing treatment using powerful modern technology systems with increased efficiency and accessibility for the public？All these will greatly change our lifestyles and experience.The use of technology can help us make progress together.
The third is the cooperation at the cultural level.Through frequent cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two countries，we can face the cultural differences between France and China and enhance our understanding in exchanges.The friendly relationship between the French and Chinese peoples is characterized by an emotional fusion and a mutual understanding and appreciation of two great civilizations.France and China are both impassioned nations with deep emotional connections to nature，history and ancient civilization and have many things in common at the cultural level.At the same time，the two countries also have differences in philosophy，history，culture and even architecture.However，the collision of communication will ignite new ideas，generate common interests，and foster the need to understand each other's cultures，thus making the relationship between the two countries stronger.Efforts should be made to encourage extensive connectivity between Chinese and French artistic and cultural institutions，such as the exchange between Versailles Palace and Palace Museum.Both countries should also promote the development of bilateral cultural tourism，incorporating more cultural elements into tourism visits，and leverage each other's curiosity about their respective traditional culture to strengthen exchanges and foster a win-win situation while remaining true to their own traditional culture.
The fourth is the deepening cooperation in the field of science and technology.France is the first Western power to sign an intergovernmental agreement on scitech cooperation with China.Since 1978，the sci-tech cooperation between the two sides has deepened，ranging from personnel exchanges，basic research and high-tech cooperation to major sci-tech engineering cooperation.In the future，France and China can deepen their cooperation based on the common interests of both countries.The first is to continue in-depth cooperation in traditional fields such as civil nuclear energy，aerospace，aviation and healthcare.The second is to further expand the cooperation in emerging cooperation fields such as AI，quantum technology，hydrogen energy，emerging infectious diseases，anti-pandemic cooperation，clean energy，environment and climate change and biodiversity，deep space exploration，agriculture，carbon neutrality，digital economy，self-driving cars and hydrogen energy vehicles.The third is to strengthen non-governmental cooperation and broaden cooperation channels.The two countries can strengthen inter-university cooperation and inter-city cooperation in sci-tech innovation.They can drive deeper cooperation by leveraging the exchange of researchers and utilizing the role of international students from both countries as bridges for mutual understanding and cooperation.
The fifth is the cooperation in the field of energy.Regarding this field，France has joined hands with China to cooperate in a third country：the Hinkley Point C nuclear power project is being built in Britain.Once completed，the nuclear power plant，which is located in Britain，will be the result of joint construction between France and China.Both countries have broad prospects for cooperation in the development of new energy sources.At present，the cooperation has been considerable in this field，which will continue to grow and develop.
The sixth is the cooperation between France and China in the United Nations Security Council.China-France cooperation has played an important role in safeguarding stability in the world.At the Security Council level，France and China need to continue their efforts to jointly put forward new proposals for the reform of multilateral mechanisms.Multilateralism must be strengthened and must adapt to the world situation.China-France cooperation will provide new ideas for building multilateralism，an urgent issue that requires cooperation，in the 21 st century.
The steady flow of friendship between China and France grows into a strong river of bilateral relations.Looking back at history，many“firsts”created in China-France exchanges are important testimony to the enduring friendship between the two countries.France is the first Western power to formally establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China，and also the first country to establish strategic partnership and carry out strategic dialogue with China and to carry out civil nuclear energy cooperation with China.At present，the world is in an era of major changes unseen in a century，where there are still many frustrations and obstacles.The global economy encounters a countercurrent，and the global pandemic makes the world economy move forward in twists and turns.Despite the complicated and changeable international situation，the importance China attaches to its relations with France has not changed，the common pursuit for peace，development，fairness and justice has not changed，and the mutually beneficial and win-win nature of China-France cooperation has not changed.These three“not changed” [1] are President Xi Jinping's profound summary by gaining an understanding of the history and based on long-term perspectives，and also a solid foundation for developing China-France relations.It is precisely because of this that the open cooperation between France and China is particularly important.Only by breaking down trade barriers between countries，continuously promoting information transmission，process cooperation and technology sharing between countries，and improving the efficiency of global resource allocation，can we provide a strong driving force for the development of the world economy and achieve the common progress of the international community.Great powers should seek common ground while reserving differences and find more space for cooperation and development，instead of putting themselves on opposite sides of interests.Both France and China are permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and shoulder special historical missions and responsibilities.The two nations should make joint efforts to carry forward the traditional friendship，hold high the banner of multilateralism，actively explore and innovate，continuously enhance the level of the close and lasting China-France comprehensive strategic partnership，and make greater contributions to promoting the peace，stability and development in the world.Looking forward to the future，China-France friendship will withstand any adversity，grow even stronger over time，and yield even more fruitful outcomes in the new era.
Essam SHARAF
from Egypt
China and Arab states share a time-honored traditional friendship.By exchanging and cooperating with each other following the principles of peace and cooperation，openness and inclusiveness，mutual learning as well as shared benefits，the two sides have gradually established a future-oriented strategic partnership of comprehensive cooperation and common development.The world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century，with rising deglobalization and the once-in-a-century pandemic.However，China and Arab states still cemented their bilateral relations and political mutual trust，and stepped up exchanges and cooperation in various fields，though facing a complicated and changing international landscape and geopolitical maneuvering.Looking ahead，the Belt and Road Initiative（BRI）is becoming a“new engine”to promote bilateral ties of China and Arab states.Therefore，the Belt and Road cooperation will further expand cooperation between them.Moreover，the 1 st China-Arab States Summit will further enhance comprehensive strategic friendly relations between China and Arab states，laying out new blueprint for future China-Arab relations and making the“Chinese Dream”a dream that benefits the world.
As ancient civilizations，Arab states and China share many similarities.With their own historical foundations，Arab culture and Chinese culture are both natural extensions of an ancient civilization，deeply rooted in its own rich culture and history，in modern society，and the sources for modern people to retrace the past，find their roots and draw impetuses for progress.As a consequence，exchanges and dialogues between China civilization and Arab civilization started as early as ancient times.
China and Arab states enjoy a long history of exchanges and cooperation.Through prolonged exchanges，the two sides have deepened traditional friendship，enhanced political mutual trust，expanded economic and trade cooperation，and promoted cultural exchanges and mutual learning，yielding fruitful achievements of cooperation in various fields.The traditional friendship between China and Arab states is profound，and the ancient Silk Road has played an important role in promoting economic，trade and cultural exchanges between the two sides.
The vigorous development of China-Arab relations has benefited from China's successful development experience，development path and development model.China's prosperity has set a good example for Arab states，making Arab states“Look East”and embrace China to learn from China by strengthening their relations with China.The BRI，a vivid interpretation of China's long-term opening-up policy，provides an important platform for opposing unilateralism，allowing all countries to expand sound cooperation in a just global governance system.So，it is welcomed by Arab states and makes them feel closer to China psychologically and emotionally.
（1）China-Arab cooperation has been brought to a new level.
Since the founding of the People's Republic of China，China-Arab friendly exchanges and mutually beneficial cooperation have developed steadily and kept growing.From 1956，when it established diplomatic relations with Egypt，to 1990，when it established diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia，China has established diplomatic relations with all 22 Arab states.From the late 20 th century to the early 21 st century，strengthening collective dialogue and cooperation with Arab states has become an important goal for China to promote the high-level development of its relations with Arab states.As a result，China-Arab relations have begun to expand from bilateral to multilateral cooperation.In January 2004，the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum was established with the aim of“strengthening dialogue and cooperation and promoting peace and development”，marking that bilateral cooperation between China and Arab states was updated towards institutionalized，multilateral and collective cooperation.Since the establishment of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum，the two sides have successively established various types of collective cooperation mechanisms.By doing so，they have gradually built a cooperation pattern in which politics，economy，trade，humanities and other fields are promoted together，and government supporting and nongovernmental participation go hand in hand，making important contributions to deepening the traditional friendship between China and Arab states，boosting mutually beneficial cooperation and promoting the building of a new type of China-Arab partnership.In May 2010，the two sides announced“the establishment of a strategic partnership of comprehensive cooperation and common development between China and Arab states”，bringing the China-Arab friendly relations and collective cooperation to another new level.In June 2010，China established a strategic dialogue mechanism with the Gulf Cooperation Council（GCC），which further deepened China-Arab political mutual trust and multilateral cooperation.In 2018，the two sides announced the establishment of“a future-oriented strategic partnership of comprehensive cooperation and common development”.Since then，bilateral cooperation in various fields has made great progress and remarkable achievements.The comprehensive cooperation between China and Arab states in the new era makes the two sides“closely linked with their dreams of national rejuvenation”，and injects a strong impetus into the historical process of achieving the rejuvenation of the two nations.Moreover，it also sets a good example for cooperation between countries with different social systems，particularly the South-South cooperation，and contributes to promoting regional governance in the Middle East and global governance and building a new paradigm for international relations and a community with a shared future for mankind.
（2）The BRI has revitalized the ancient trade and cultural channels successfully.
The Belt and Road cooperation has brought important opportunities for strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Arab states，and successfully revitalized the ancient trade and cultural channels.Driven by the Belt and Road cooperation，China-Arab trade has grown rapidly，cultural exchanges have been deepening，and the China-Arab cooperation is brimming with vitality.For example，the trade volume between China and Arab states reached USD 330.3 billion last year（in 2021），an increase of 1.5 times over ten years ago.In the first three quarters of 2022，the trade volume between China and Arab states reached about USD 319.3 billion，a year-onyear increase of 35%，close to the level of the whole year of 2019.In the investment field，in 2021，the stock of two-way foreign direct investment between China and Arab states hit USD 27 billion，an increase of 2.6 times over ten years ago.China has signed documents on Belt and Road cooperation with 20 Arab states and the League of Arab States（LAS）.The two sides have more than 200 large-scale cooperation projects in energy and infrastructure，and the cooperation results have benefited nearly 2 billion people from both sides.In energy cooperation，China imported 264 million tons of crude oil from Arab states in 2021，accounting for nearly 52% of the total crude oil imports in the same period.The cooperation between the two sides in new energy and clean energy such as solar energy，wind energy and hydropower is booming.
Iqbal SURVE（Front Row，1 st from the Right），International Expert of RDI and Advisor to South African President，and Essam SHARAF（Front Row，2 nd from the Right），Former Prime Minister of Egypt
（1）The China-Arab States Summit promoted the China-Arab cooperation to move toward comprehensive and in-depth development.
Economic and trade cooperation has always been“the ballast”for China-Arab cooperation.In recent years，China-Arab economic and trade cooperation has developed comprehensively，with fruitful results achieved.In 2022，China and Arab states held the first China-Arab states leaders'summit-the China-Arab States Summit.As clear proof of deepened dialogue between the Chinese and Arab civilizations，the 1 st China-Arab States Summit will be a milestone in the history of China-Arab relations.It is not only because it is the first summit between China and Arab states，which is important，successful and significant，but also because it is held in an intricate and turbulent international situation.In today's chaotic world，China and Arab states urgently need to conduct higher-level coordination，consultation and cooperation to cope with challenges jointly.The China-Arab States Summit has brought new opportunities for further deepening cooperation between the two sides，and will further strengthen the China-Arab strategic partnership，and promote and upgrade the comprehensive cooperation between China and Arab states in the new era to enter a new stage of a future-oriented cooperation of high quality.
（2）The BRI is becoming the“new engine”for the development of China-Arab relations.
The BRI is becoming a“new engine”for the development of China-Arab relations，and will promote the bilateral relations to move onto the fast track smoothly.Several factors make the BRI have tremendous vitality，including：First，it keeps with the trend of the times，follows the law of development，serves the common interests and demands of people of all these countries，and has strong“universality”and“inclusiveness”.Therefore，it has been widely recognized and welcomed by Arab states.Second，as an idea，the BRI aims to build a community with a shared future for mankind，and it is also an important means to achieve this goal.Third，the world changes rapidly，and the dilemma that human development is at a“crossroads”require“humane”globalization and a new global governance model.Connectivity meets the natural needs of human for survival，while the BRI promotes the exchanges and integration of people across civilizations，nationalities and cultures around the world.The connectivity advocated by the BRI and the globalization based on interdependence make everyone enjoy the right to peace and development，which shares somewhat similar features with Arab cultural ideas.Fourth，the BRI has played an active role against the pandemic.The significance of the BRI has become more prominent when the world is working together to overcome the pandemic challenge.The Belt and Road cooperation is an innovative model to promote multilateral cooperation among Belt and Road countries and regions，especially developing countries，bringing new prospects for promoting international cooperation and realizing common development.The BRI has greatly improved the connectivity of Belt and Road countries and regions，even the whole world，and optimized the industrial structure of these countries and regions.At present，these countries and regions is jointly fighting the pandemic and has strengthen cooperation in restoring economic development，which will help overcome common challenges facing them.In the long run，the Belt and Road cooperation will strongly promote all parties to work together to build a community with a shared future for mankind.In recent years，China has actively promoted the building of the Silk Road of Health.Relevant cooperation played a significant role in combating the pandemic，which once again proved that Chinese solutions are effective.The international community should jointly improve the global disease prevention and control system to cope with the public health crisis more effectively.All parties should get the most out of the relevant cooperation mechanisms under the BRI framework，enhance practical cooperation in the field of health and strengthen global governance in public health.China has been active in practicing the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind and has made irreplaceable contributions to global solidarity against COVID-19.Looking into the future，I believe that China will continue to join hands with all parties to promote the Belt and Road cooperation，offer more wisdom and solutions to address the issues that humanity faces，and make greater contributions to world peace and development.
The 1 st China-Arab States Summit made a top-level design for the future trend and development of China-Arab relations.After the summit，Arab states and China will hold hands tighter and embrace each other more warmly，work with each other with solidarity and mutual assistance，and jointly build a community with a shared future for mankind.Looking ahead，in order to further promote the future-oriented economic and trade cooperation of high quality between them，China and Arab states should work together and make more efforts in the following ways：
First，vigorously promote the negotiation to set up the China-GCC Free Trade Zone.China and Arab states should speed up the joint construction of the China-GCC Free Trade Zone，and create a broader development space for trade and investment between them by improving the level of trade liberalization and facilitation.
Second，further optimize the trade structure.China and Arab states have highly complementary resource endowments and solid trade foundation.Energy resources will remain an important part of China-Arab trade.However，there is still much room for expansion of industrial cooperation and agricultural trade between China and Arab states.Therefore，the two sides should further intensify cooperation for trade facilitation and strive to promote a balanced development of trade.
Third，expand investment in emerging fields.Taking the economic transformation and development of Arab states as an opportunity，China and Arab states should give full play to the aggregation role of overseas economic and trade cooperation parks.They should guide Chinese enterprises to increase investment in key manufacturing industries in relevant countries，and explore new investment and cooperation opportunities in cross-border e-commerce，smart cities and other digital economy as well artificial intelligence，biopharmaceuticals and other high-tech fields.
Fourth，promote the transformation and upgrading of infrastructure cooperation.Arab states still have a big gap in infrastructure construction such as power supply，new energy development，transportation facilities and housing construction.As the most important partners in the field of infrastructure construction，China and Arab states should guide Chinese enterprises to keep improving their competitiveness，and actively take the integrated development path of“construction-investment-operation”to tap into the markets of Arab states.
Fifth，strengthen bilateral communication and coordination on policies.The Chinese and Arab governments should strengthen exchanges and consultations in the economic and trade fields，and jointly promote the signing of bilateral investment protection agreements and double taxation avoidance agreements to create a favorable policy and business environment for bilateral investment cooperation.Meantime，they should continue to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in the financial field and provide more convenient financial services and diversified financing support for economic and trade cooperation.
Global challenges are increasing as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a deep influence and unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise.Against this background，the world has a deeper understanding of the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping.Countries are far more interdependent than before.Humanity is a community with a shared future where all people rise and fall together，and no country can cope with global challenges alone.Therefore，all countries must act together to pool their strength.
In terms of fighting the pandemic，China was active in practicing the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind and made irreplaceable contributions to global solidarity against COVID-19.In the face of difficulties，China can always show strong cohesion and mobilization.By adhering to the people-centered philosophy，the CPC took effective measures to fight the pandemic in time，and won the understanding and support of the people.In the fight against COVID-19，China's comprehensive use of high-tech means such as big data，5G and artificial intelligence was particularly impressive.China has also been active in strengthening international cooperation against COVID-19，injecting great confidence and strength into in the global fight against the pandemic.To help bridge the“immunization gap”，China has supplied more than 2.2 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses to more than 120 countries and international organizations，and will continue to provide 600 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to African countries and 150 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to ASEAN countries free of charge.A cooperation mechanism has been established for Chinese hospitals to pair up with 41 African hospitals；the main building of China-aided Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention（Africa CDC）PhaseⅠProject marked structural completion in November 2021.China has also fully implemented the G20's Debt Service Suspension Initiative（DSSI），and has suspended over USD 1.3 billion of debt service payments，the highest among G20 members in terms of deferral amount.These practical measures reflected China's role as a responsible power，making it win wide acclaim from the international community.China has also donated pandemic prevention supplies to Egypt for many times，provided the latest version of prevention and treatment programs，organized video exchanges among experts，and tried its best to provide support and help for Egypt to fight the pandemic.Vaccine cooperation is a highlight of anti-pandemic cooperation between Egypt and China.China has actively fulfilled its commitment to make vaccines a global public product.It not only provided vaccines to Egypt，but also established a joint production line of COVID-19 vaccines in Egypt.After meeting the needs of Egypt，the vaccines produced jointly by the two sides were also exported to other countries in the Middle East and Africa，helping more countries fight the pandemic.An Arabic proverb says，“A true friend is he who shows up at times of need.”The unity and cooperation between Egypt and China in fighting the pandemic will surely drive the friendly cooperation between the two countries to a higher level.
In improving global governance and promoting globalization，China has played an exemplary role in maintaining international order and advocating multilateralism in the past decade.Since the 18 th CPC National Congress，China has actively participated in the reform and building of the global governance system，which cannot be separated from the CPC's leadership.Improving global governance requires practicing multilateralism，which is exactly what China is doing.In addition，it also requires full compliance with international law.However，many countries have not upheld the authority of international law，and even launched wars，blockades and sanctions unilaterally.As a contrast，under the leadership of the CPC，China has been constantly and strictly practiced and abided by the regulations of international law.It can be said that China has provided an example worthy of reference and respect for countries around the world in improving global governance and promoting globalization.The CPC is different from other political parties in the world with its uniqueness and advanced nature，and it has won people's heartfelt support and firm support with the excellent qualities and governance philosophy that it has always practiced.The greatest achievement of the CPC，compared with other political parties in the world，is that it has promoted national harmony and development with Chinese characteristics.The CPC shows its advanced nature in national governance and sets a good example for other political parties in the world in terms of self-innovation and continuous improvement as a political party.The CPC can gain popular support because it is people-centered and can respond to people's needs.In the face of major challenges and crises，the CPC can lead the people to form a joint force，which also embodies the CPC's philosophy of“exercising power for the people”.
We believe that，in the future，China will continue to join hands with all parties to promote the Belt and Road cooperation and offer more wisdom and solutions to address the issues humanity faces.We also believe that Chinese people can unite as one to build the“Chinese Dream”.Realizing the great rejuvenation is not only related to all Chinese people，but also a common goal of human development.Despite the challenges，China has always maintained the momentum of development，signaling to the world that the“Chinese Dream”is also a dream that benefits the world.
Rudolf SCHARPING
from Germany
2022 marked the 50 th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Germany.Although having gone through twists and turns in the past 50 years，China-Germany relations was successful as a whole.In the face of multiple global challenges，especially the Ukraine crisis，all countries，regardless of their political systems，must work together to cope with them，and the scientific community，non-governmental organizations and all people need to make contributions jointly.All countries should take practical actions to strengthen cooperation and shoulder the common responsibility of promoting world peace and development.Since Germany and Europe share common interests with China，promoting exchanges and cooperation in various fields at different levels between them will play a key role in promoting comprehensive and sustainable international relations.Looking ahead，I hope China and Germany can better share and leverage their scientific knowledge，innovation capabilities and economic strength to jointly contribute to a better world.
In the world order that pursues peaceful development and stability，Germany and Europe share common interests with China，namely，making humanity and the people of every country embrace a safe，stable，peaceful and better future.China and Germany have a cooperation history of 50 years，although the two countries are geographically far away and have different histories and cultures as well as distinct political and legal systems.However，these differences are both challenges and opportunities for dialogue.In the past 50 years，China and Germany have had successful practices in this regard.China-Germany relations have experienced difficult stages and great setbacks，no matter in the past or now.However，for the two countries，the process of mutual understanding，exchanges and deepening relations has been successful.We have every reason to commend this progress while thinking about how to make use of and develop this experience in the future.Since Germany and Europe share common interests with China，promoting exchanges and cooperation in various fields at different levels between them will play a key role in promoting comprehensive and sustainable international relations.
Although China and Germany have differences in political systems，cultural origins and social governance models，these differences did not stop their desire to strengthen dialogue，deepen understanding and continuously improve cooperation.The relationship between two countries and that between their people are not limited to intergovernmental relations or the exchange of goods and services，but also involve a wide range of exchanges in culture，social science，economy and other sciences，exchanges and business cooperation among local partners，and non-governmental exchanges and mutual understanding.These exchanges and cooperation will promote the Germany-China and Europe-China relations，and play a key role in promoting comprehensive and sustainable international relations in the whole world.In recent decades，China has carried out a series of close cultural，political and economic exchanges with Europe and Germany，which are of great significance，have greatly promoted mutual understanding among countries and continents，and have a great impact on the development of the world.Therefore，the relations between Germany and China，those between EU member states and China，and those between EU member states should never be regarded as isolated bilateral relations.They also have a great impact on the relations between continents as well as on global development.
Since the reform and opening-up，China has achieved success unprecedented in human economic history.China has made countless progress—it lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty，prolonged their life expectancy，and offered them more educational opportunities and better medical security，and the list goes on.This is commendable.However，with this development，China is also facing many new requirements and common challenges in the process of becoming a global power.Just like Germany after World WarⅡ，China is also facing challenges emerging from the rapid recovery，including how to ensure the efficiency of the medical system，how to address the wealth gap，how to narrow the development gap between eastern and western regions，and how to deal with the harm to soil，groundwater and environment brought about by rapid economic growth.Even developing at different stages and speeds and even in different directions，China and Germany can still share experiences，identify comparability，and jointly formulate solutions and put them into practice，which are the right purpose of communication，that is，Europe and Germany on the other side of the world communicate with China in the East to jointly address common challenges.China and Germany have many things in common and can make great achievements，but they also face great challenges.
First，the long-standing，evolving and unresolved challenge of climate change.In response to the challenge of climate change，China and Germany are moving towards a common goal：China is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060，while Germany hopes to achieve it by 2045.China is a global leader in developing renewable energy.We should deliberate on whether it is possible to make faster progress in cooperation between China，Germany and third countries.China and Germany as well as their peoples are battling ongoing climate change，which threatens food，agriculture，economy，cities and everything else.I hope China and Germany can better share and leverage their scientific knowledge，innovation capabilities and economic strength to jointly contribute to a better world.
Second，the Ukraine crisis broke out this year.In this regard，during his recent visit to China，German Chancellor Olaf SCHOLZ reached an important consensus with Chinese leaders on opposing the use or threats to use nuclear weapons.China and Germany are staunch advocates of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.This meeting of crucial significance has enhanced mutual trust and deepened political understanding between the two countries，opening up bright prospects for the two countries to join hands in the future in a more peaceful world environment.
Third，the COVID-19 pandemic coped with by the whole world since early 2020.In this interdependent world，close cooperation among countries，joint projects，the global supply chain and frequent exchange of knowledge and experience have made the whole world closely intertwined.So，so-called regional events no longer exist in the present world.Germany and Europe share common interests with China，namely，we share common interests in boosting world peace and development and seeking a stable world order.We must therefore adhere to the principles on which the world order is based，including mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity，mutual noninterference in internal affairs and more that we have learned and formulated together over the past decades.
In the context of interwoven old and new challenges，China-Germany cooperation will surely serve as a“stabilizer”for the world.In the face of global challenges，all countries，regardless of their political systems，must work together to cope with them，and the scientific community，non-governmental organizations and all people also need to make contributions jointly.I hope leaders of all countries can earnestly shoulder their responsibilities and take decisive actions to strengthen global cooperation.In this regard，China-Germany cooperation and China-Europe cooperation are indispensable.
In the 50 years since the formal establishment of diplomatic relations，China and Germany have always maintained dialogue and communication and their cooperation in various fields has been broadened and deepened gradually，with remarkable results achieved.In the political and diplomatic fields，the two countries have been constantly promoting bilateral relations following the spirit of mutual respect and mutual benefit，strengthened consultations on major international affairs and hot issues，and striven to make positive contributions to world peace and development.Dialogue has been a main means of China-Germany relations in the past 50 years.Successive administrations and major leaders of the two countries have maintained close communication through visits，telephone calls and video calls.The two sides have established more than 70 dialogue mechanisms covering politics，economy，trade，education，science and technology，military，etc.
In the field of economy，trade and investment，Germany has always been China's most important trading partner in Europe.China has also become Germany's largest trading partner for six consecutive years and Germany's most important source of imports for seven consecutive years.According to the data of the Federal Statistical Office of Germany，the trade in goods between China and Germany amounted to EUR 245.4 billion in 2021，up by 15.1%，and China exports to Germany was EUR 141.7 billion，nearly twice U.S.exports to Germany.In 2022，against the background of global turmoil and soaring energy prices，China attached more importance to German investment.In the first half of this year alone，the total amount of German funds directly entering China has accumulated more than EUR 10 billion，a record high for semi-annual investment since 2000.In addition，important manufacturing enterprises such as the German chemical giant BASF，BMW and Volkswagen have also announced to increase investment in China.Moreover，several new industrial base projects have been launched in China.
Rudolf SCHARPING，Former German Minister of Defense and Member of Advisory Committee of RDI，Speaks at the International Industrial Cooperation Sub Forum of the Belt and Road Forum
In the field of people-to-people exchanges，as of 2022，China and Germany have established 103 pairs of sister cities；China has set up 19 Confucius Institutes in Germany，and Germany has set up 9 language institutions under Goethe-Institut in China.These institutions have organized a large number of cultural exchange activities and promoted non-governmental exchanges between the two countries.Chinese and German people's love for the other country's language and culture is increasing.By far，more than 150 universities in China offer German majors，and the number of Chinese students studying in Germany is 50,000，the largest group of overseas students in Germany.
China and Germany，both major economies in the world，are major trading partners of the other country.In the future，it is expected that the two sides will conduct new cooperation in fields such as automobile manufacturing，Industrial Internet of Things（IIoT），chemicals and energy.
In the automobile industry：in the past，Volkswagen，Mercedes-Benz，BMW and other German automobile brands were popular in the Chinese market.With the continuous development of the new energy vehicle industry，China has become a global leader in the field of new energy vehicles.If China and Germany cooperate deeply，China will provide manufacturing technology in the field of electrification，while Germany will provide intelligent network connection technology，so as to jointly further open up the new energy vehicle market in China and Europe.In this case，China-Germany automobile manufacturing cooperation will enter a new era.
In the IIoT field：Germany leads the world in the field of Industry 4.0—the IIoT，which is a core application of the digital economy in the industrial field.The digital economy is also a development priority of China in the next five years，which has been written into the 14 th Five-Year Plan.Germany and China are expected to strengthen cooperation in this field.
In the chemical industry：the chemical industry is one of the pillar industries in Germany，and Germany-based BASF is a global chemical giant.However，Since the Russia-Ukraine conflict leads to an energy shortage in Europe，the natural gas supply to BASF's site in Germany，also the world's largest chemical production site，has been reduced by 50%，resulting in the cessation of operations.Considering that China has great advantages in industrial chain integration，China-Germany cooperation is expected to be strengthened.
In recent decades，China has conducted a series of cultural，political and economic exchanges with Europe and Germany.These interactions of great significance have greatly promoted mutual understanding among countries and continents and had a great impact on the development of the world.Therefore，the relations between Germany and China，those between EU member states and China，and those between EU member states should never be regarded as isolated bilateral relations.We must always understand that these relations have the same impact on relations between continents as well as on global development.Although the two countries have differences in political systems，cultural origins，social governance models，etc.，these differences cannot encumber our desire to strengthen dialogue，deepen understanding and continuously improve cooperation，because we share common interests.We all hope that the whole earth，humanity and the people of every country can have a safe，stable，peaceful and better future.The relationship between two countries and that between their people are not limited to intergovernmental relations or the exchange of goods and services（i.e.，economic exchange），but also involve a wide range of exchanges in culture，social science，economy and other sciences，exchanges and business cooperation among local partners，and non-governmental exchanges and mutual understanding.These exchanges and cooperation will promote the Germany-China and Europe-China relations and play a key role in promoting comprehensive and sustainable international relations in the whole world.
Looking ahead，China-Germany relations are full of opportunities and challenges.In 2020，China surpassed the U.S.to become the most important trading partner of the European Union for the first time.Benefiting from economic and trade cooperation between the two sides，the China-Europe Railway Express has become a“Golden Pass Line”promoting the development of port economy and hub economy.Moreover，China and Germany also have great development potential in the fields such as new energy，green economy，digital economy and service industry.The historical experience and lessons we gained about China-Germany relations over the past 50 years show that seeking truth and being pragmatic，mutual respect and mutual benefit are the key elements of bilateral friendship.I hope Germany，Europe and China will further promote exchanges and cooperation in various fields at different levels based on common interests，and better share and leverage their scientific knowledge，innovation capabilities and economic strength to jointly contribute to a better world.
Yukio HATOYAMA
from Japan
2022 marked the 50 th anniversary of the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations.Looking back on the past，50 years ago，the leaders of the two countries put aside their differences and promoted the normalization of the diplomatic relations for the common well-being of the two peoples，showing exemplary wisdom.In September 1972，then Japanese Prime Minister Kakuei TANAKA visited the People's Republic of China and signed and issued Joint Statement/Communique of the Government of Japan and the Government of the People's Republic of China （hereinafter referred to as“China-Japan Joint Statement”）with then Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai.Fifty years later，China and Japan have not only deepened people-to-people exchanges，but also expanded economic cooperation，and established an interdependent and win-win relations.Looking ahead，China and Japan need to overcome their differences in values，push forward bilateral relations，and deepen cooperation and people-to-people exchanges in various fields under the BRI；they also need to safeguard the fairness and justice of the international community，advocate and practice true multilateralism，and safeguard world peace.
China plays a leading role in economy，science and technology and has become a growth driver for the world economy.The current economic aggregate（in CNY）of China is twice that of ten years ago.China still maintained positive economic growth against the headwind of the COVID-19 pandemic and a sagging world economy in recent two years.The number of patent applications filed by Chinese applicants ranked first in the world for three consecutive years.Although the political relations between China and Japan are not so satisfactory at present，the two countries still maintain a strong momentum of development in the field of non-governmental exchanges and trade.In narrowing the wealth gap，the CPC has made great efforts to reduce the poverty population and made remarkable achievements.By developing the economy in coastal areas first，China has gradually developed the economy in inland areas with the coastal economy as a catalyst，successfully creating a China that has eradicated absolute poverty and enabled 1.3 billion to 1.4 billion Chinese people to live a well-off life.Through the Chinese path to modernization mentioned in the report to the 20 th National Congress of the CPC，China has made great achievements admired across the world，created miracles of rapid economic development and long-term social stability，and expanded the ways for developing countries to move towards modernization，which is equally admirable.
Looking back at the modern history of Asia，Japan invaded the Korean Peninsula and China.Asia，once a battlefield，should no longer become a battlefield but a“community without war”in the future.On the journey to a community with a shared future，it is necessary to overcome the distrust between neighboring countries and enhance the feelings among people of all countries.It is necessary to understand that one of the main reasons for the emotional opposition between Japan and its neighbors is the legacy of the past.Japan should face up to historical facts and cherish peace.
As Asia is a whole，it is very important for Asian countries to realize that they have a shared future.An Asia-Pacific community with a shared future is essential for the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind.Asian countries need to discuss and exchange views on common topics they share in the fields of economy，trade，education，medical care，sports，environmental protection，etc.，and strive to build a community where they are integrated in various fields，which is very important for Asia.The implementation of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership （RCEP）has provided relevant economies with a common basis for trade exchanges，which greatly benefits the economic development of the entire Asia-Pacific region.In the future，we should further promote the comprehensive integration of relevant countries and regions in various fields，and then promote the community building.
2022 marked the 50 th anniversary of the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations.Fifty years ago，the leaders of both China and Japan realized that as neighbors separated only by a strip of water，only by establishing stable relations could peace and prosperity be realized in the two countries and even in East Asia.Stable China-Japan relations are like oxygen，which people don't notice until it's gone.On the 50 th anniversary of the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations，the two countries should relive the initial intention of such normalization，focus on the peace and development of the two countries in the next 50 years，and strive to stabilize the hard-won bilateral relations on the basis of mutual respect，mutual understanding and mutual support.
Fifty years ago，the Chinese and Japanese governments successfully normalized their diplomatic relations by issuing a joint statement.But the goal of developing goodneighborly relations on this basis has not yet been fully achieved.Moreover，China-Japan relations，if left unchecked，may even regress.In the next 50 years，how China and Japan should develop good-neighborly relations and promote normalized development of China-Japan diplomatic relations？
I hope the Chinese and Japanese governments can formally reaffirm the basic principle of“One China”again.Japanese political circles should not have any rash words and deeds that may fuel the“Taiwan independence”，like the U.S.If Japan manipulates its values to instigate Chinese Taiwan to take wrong actions，it will seriously undermine the peace and stability of East Asia.As early as 50 years ago，the leaders of China and Japan reached a consensus on the Taiwan question.However，for a period of time，Japan has tended to be negative on the Taiwan question，which has brought serious interference to the bilateral relations.The Japanese government should take the 50 th anniversary of the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations as an opportunity to clarify its position on the Taiwan question and affirm its adherence to the one-China principle in word and deed.
Japan should realize that only by contributing to the balance of China-U.S.relations from its own perspective rather than under the control of the U.S.can Japan truly serve its own interests.The normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations 50 years ago was partly due to the adjustment of Japanese diplomacy with that of American foreign strategy.At present，if Japan，as an U.S.'ally，chooses to trail after the U.S.policy，China-Japan relations are very likely to becoming strained.In the past 50 years，whenever the relations between China and Western countries deteriorated，Japan always played an active role in improving the relations between China and Western countries.If Japan plays its role as China's neighbor and U.S.'most important ally in East Asia，its influence will not be underestimated.This is the very diplomatic mission of Japan.
True diplomacy should be the art and science of exploring how countries with different values can get along well.Fifty years ago，our ancestors well understood and practiced the true meaning of diplomacy.The 1972 Joint Statement clearly stated that“In spite of the differences in their social systems existing between the two countries，the two countries should，and can，establish relations of peace and friendship”.At that time，the differences in values between China and Japan should be far greater than those at present.Even in the face of such great differences in values，our ancestors still overcome these problems.Therefore，we should also be able to overcome differences now.Japan and China are two sovereign states.It is normal for two countries to have different opinions and different political systems.However，the current situation between China and Japan arises from differences of opinion，which leads to poor communication between their leaders and governments.Unfortunately，it is unwise.If this is the usual way of communication，it would be more difficult for the two governments to communicate should the tensions between China and Japan mount.Therefore，we need to overcome the differences in values.
Compared with 50 years ago，many changes have taken place in the times in which Japan and China live today.However，the fact that China and Japan are neighbors separated only by a strip of water has never changed.No matter how economic strength and technology develop or how international relations change，Japan or China will never disappear from the map.Japan and China are eternal neighbors.If the two countries disputed with each other，it will be not in the national interests of the two countries，and undermine the stability of East Asia and even the whole world.As a matter of fact，the Joint Statement made 50 years ago already pointed out：“The normalization of relations and development of good-neighborly and friendly relations between the two countries are in the interests of the two peoples and will contribute to the relaxation of tension in Asia and peace in the world.”In the face of such an unchanging fact，the differences in values between China and Japan are not worth mentioning at all.We must，particularly now，cross the differences in values again and push forward China-Japan relations.
In recent years，the Japanese government，like the American government，has been emphasizing the conflict between ideologies，which is not conducive to the easing of China-U.S.relations.Japan must maintain close exchanges with China to serve as a bridge between China and the U.S.
Politically，the Japan and China have an even greater gap in values.For the sake of people's well-being，it is necessary for the political leaders of the two countries to communicate more frequently and manage their disagreements to avoid any damage to bilateral relations and promote the normalization of diplomatic relations.
Economically，the bilateral trade between China and Japan reached a record high in 2021.In addition to Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership （RCEP），which came into effect on January 1 st ，2022，China's application to join Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership （CPTPP）is also of great significance to the bilateral relations.
Culturally，the COVID-19 pandemic slowed down the people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.Therefore，it is necessary for China and Japan to strengthen non-governmental cultural exchanges based on their cultural commonness，and promote exchanges between youth and between students.
Baige ZHAO，Chair of Advisory Committee of RDI，Meets with Yukio HATOYAMA，Former Prime Minister of Japan at the 2 nd International Summit Forum on Precision Medicine & Medical Care
The world now not only faces geopolitical conflicts，but also difficulties rarely seen in history.But all countries have a shared future，where the crisis in one country will spread to other countries.Therefore，it is very important to bear in mind the overall interests to build a community with a shared future for mankind.China has put forward the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind and the BRI，protected the fairness and justice of the international community，and advocated and practiced true multilateralism.All of these are very important and correct.
The BRI is a brilliant idea.On the one hand，the BRI will promote in-depth economic cooperation with neighboring countries，especially developing countries，which is conducive to promoting economic development；on the other hand，it also takes into account nongovernmental exchanges，which is helpful for China to enhance its political stability with regional countries.The positive significance brought by the BRI is not only beneficial to China，but also of significance to world peace.China aims to establish a community with a shared future featuring common development，mutual understanding and mutual assistance with neighboring countries by proposing the BRI，which has promoted the development of developing countries.As neighbors separated only by a strip of water，only by establishing stable relations can China and Japan achieve peace and prosperity in both countries and even in East Asia.On the 50 th anniversary of the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations，the two countries should relive the initial intention of such normalization，focus on the peace and development of the two countries in the next 50 years，overcome the differences in values，strive to stabilize the hard-won bilateral relations and promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation on the basis of mutual respect，mutual understanding and mutual support.In the future，I hope China and Japan can continue to work together to resolve issues through dialogue and consultation，enhance mutual trust and achieve common development.
Mushahid Hussein SAYED
from Pakistan
China and Pakistan have forged an enduring friendship dating back to antiquity，and bilateral relations have been continuously consolidated and deepened.China's rapid economic，sci-tech，and social development has benefited Pakistan and injected impetus into security and development in Asia and beyond.Pakistan hopes to continue to promote and implement the development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor during the Belt and Road cooperation with China and constructing a China-Pakistan community of shared destiny；it also hopes to strengthen project cooperation，nongovernmental contacts and think tank exchanges to improve the living standards of its people，bring tangible benefits to the people of both countries based on the solid friendship between the two countries and promote people-to-people bonds.
Pakistan is strategically located as a link between China and South Asia，Central Asia，and the Gulf countries，and it has become an important trade，energy，and transportation hub in Asia.
Since the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan，with the active promotion of the leaders of the two countries，China and Pakistan have established profound friendship and have a solid political foundation for exchanges.In February 2014，Pakistani President Hussein visited China，the first country he visited after assuming the presidency，and expressed his willingness to work with China to build a community of shared destiny during the visit.In 2015，Xi Jinping made a historic visit to Pakistan and drew up the blueprint for the China-Pakistan“1+4”cooperation structure，of which the Gwadar Port is one of the four key areas.With the promotion of the two countries'top leaders，the construction of the Gwadar Port has ushered in an unprecedented period of opportunity.Standing at a new starting point of the times，Xi Jinping has a profound insight into the development trend of the times and accurately positioned China-Pakistan relations，providing reliable support for the further development of the two countries.
The current global development faces many challenges，the COVID-19 pandemic has not subsided，the global economic development momentum is insufficient，and the peace and development deficits need to be solved urgently.Some Western countries engage in beggar-thy-neighbor practices and build protectionist barriers in defiance of international rules，creating obstacles to the open and prosperous development of all states and posing challenges to the economic growth and improvement of people's livelihood in developing countries.With the changing international situation，the global political system is undergoing continuous and profound changes.China is a builder of world peace，contributor to global development，defender of the international order and provider of public goods.China is firmly committed to safeguarding the UN-centered international system，the international order underpinned by international law，advocating and practicing true multilateralism，and guiding reforms of the global governance system with the principle of fairness and justice.As a ship sails steadily into the future，China is a pioneer and leader in promoting global development.
Based on the law of global economic development and its own development experience，China has proposed the BRI and organized large-scale international economic and trade events such as the China International Import Expo（CIIE）and the China International Fair for Trade in Services（CIFTIS），demonstrating openness and self-confidence，injecting development impetus into the post-pandemic recovery of the world economy and bringing new opportunities for all countries，especially developing countries，and providing them strong confidence to continue to participate in economic globalization.The BRI is a great initiative that will go down in history.The initiative is very positive and timely，providing a new vision for Asian countries，developing countries and the world because it advocates cooperation rather than confrontation，connectivity rather than isolation or blockade，and connects people of different countries and regions to revive the ancient Silk Road jointly.In essence，this is win-win cooperation.The vitality of this initiative lies in the concepts of inclusiveness，cooperation，and mutual benefits that it advocates.It involves all countries along the Belt and Road.No particular country or organization is targeted，nor is any specific country excluded.And all countries will benefit.At this critical moment in history，China firmly stood on the standpoint of peaceful development，carried out major country diplomacy，adhered to opening up，and promoted the improvement of global governance，which became a vital force for the world to return to the track of development and prosperity.
Economic cooperation between China and Pakistan is deepening.China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a flagship project of the BRI and the largest single cooperation project between the two countries in the history of international relations.The success of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is crucial to the BRI.In the past two years，significant progress has been made in the development of the Corridor，which has been welcomed by the Pakistan people，political parties and the Pakistani Parliament.It has solved the energy crisis and also promoted connectivity in Pakistan.The Corridor has created new connections and brought hope and confidence to the people of Pakistan，as they have seen the development and progress made in energy cooperation，the Gwadar Port construction，industrial parks，human resource development，and national economic development，and has gained tangible benefits.The development of the Corridor is essential for Pakistan's future development and prosperity.All provincial and municipal governments and political parties in Pakistan support the development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.Thanks to the BRI and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor，the annual revenue of the Pakistan government will increase by 8%.The success of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has a significantly positively influence on Pakistan，South Asia，and even the world.The Corridor has created more than 70，000 employment opportunities and contributed to poverty alleviation in Pakistan.More employment opportunities will be created once the key special economic zones are put into operation.The Gwadar Port，the core of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor，has been put into operation and is expected to be the regional economic center.
Political mutual trust is the basis for the smooth implementation of the BRI.China and Pakistan cooperate on all fronts，and the history of the bilateral relations is a perfect testimony to the all-weather partnership between China and Pakistan.Pakistan is the first foreign country Xi Jinping visited in 2015，which shows the importance of Pakistan to China's neighborhood diplomacy.In 2015，President Xi Jinping delivered an important speech at Pakistan's Parliament entitled
Building a China-Pakistan Community of Shared Destiny to Pursue Closer Win-Win Cooperation
，pointing out that China and Pakistan should strengthen mutual assistance and deepen strategic cooperation to raise China-Pakistan relations to a new height.President Xi Jinping said，a defining feature of our relations is deep political trust，which means we always put ourselves in each other's position in addressing related issues.He also proposed that China and Pakistan should continue to deepen cooperation in politics，economy，science，and technology to embrace a brighter future for China and Pakistan.Facing a new historical juncture，General Secretary Xi Jinping grasped China-Pakistan relations from a strategic perspective，pointing out that no matter how the international landscape may change，China will always approach its relations with Pakistan from a strategic and long-term perspective and give Pakistan high priority on its diplomatic agenda，pursue common development and substantiate the China-Pakistan community of shared desting.
Baige Zhao，Chair of Advisory Committee of RDI，Meets with Representatives of the Pakistan Government，Parliament，Think Tanks and Enterprises
Looking forward to the future，the BRI will further push forward the expansion of China-Pakistan relations in the following three directions.
First，under the guidance of the BRI，the political mutual trust between China and Pakistan will be further strengthened and high-level visits between the two countries will become more frequent.Since the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan，with the active promotion of the leaders and people of the two countries，China and Pakistan have established a profound friendship and laid a solid foundation for the development of bilateral relations.Since the BRI was put forward，Xi Jinping has visited Pakistan many times and contributed indelibly to developing China-Pakistan relations.In 2015，China-Pakistan relations were upgraded to an all-weather strategic partnership，which has made China-Pakistan ties even closer.This indicates that the mutual trust between the two governments has been strengthened under the background of the BRI.Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan，successive leaders of the two countries have made significant contributions to the friendly development of China-Pakistan relations.In the 21 st century，General Secretary Xi Jinping，based on the fruitful achievements made by his predecessors，made pioneering efforts and continued to push forward the in-depth development of China-Pakistan relations.
Second，under the guidance of the BRI，cooperation between Chinese and Pakistani enterprises has become closer.The degree of economic integration between China and Pakistan has been further strengthened.China and Pakistan have great economic and trade cooperation potential，especially in infrastructure construction，agriculture，and energy.With the well-developed China-Pakistan Free Trade Zone，the bilateral trade volume between China and Pakistan is expected to increase substantially.With the further deepening of the aid strategy for Pakistan，more China enterprises will enter Pakistan to provide equipment and technical support for Pakistan's infrastructure construction.By then，the exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Pakistani enterprises will become closer.The economic complementarity and interdependence of China and Pakistan will be further deepened in the context of the BRI.Eventually，a pattern of economic integration and exchanges between China and Pakistan will emerge.
Third，under the guidance of the BRI，China-Pakistan non-governmental exchanges have become more frequent，the number of international students has increased，and cultural exchanges and learning have been deepened.With the rapid development of modern information technology，people communicate in more diversified ways.Against this background，the understanding of the people of China and Pakistan on each other has become more comprehensive and definite.More and more scholars，tourists，businessmen，and non-governmental organizations in China have entered Pakistan，which has promoted the spread of China culture.At the same time，many Pakistani people have come to China to travel study and live，which has developed the friendship between China and Pakistan to a new height.
The world is facing turbulence，and promoting cooperation and joint development among countries requires strong confidence and development momentum.The BRI promotes cooperation，and the development of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor shares prosperity.This way of cooperation is the future direction.Moreover，people-to-people and cultural exchanges should be deepened.The two countries should further promote civil diplomacy，expand people-to-people exchanges，deepen mutual understanding，respect，and in-depth integration in the fields of education，science，culture and health，especially in history，customs，and culture，consolidate the public opinion foundation of good-neighborly friendship，and consolidate the friendship between the two peoples.The two countries should promote long-term cooperation and development through allround people-to-people and cultural exchanges.In the process of the Belt and Road cooperation with China and constructing the China-Pakistan Community of Shared Destiny，Pakistan will improve the living standards of its people，consolidate the traditional friendship between China and Pakistan，and promote peace and prosperity between the two countries.
Over the past years since its return to the motherland，Hong Kong SAR，under the support of the central government，has overcome many crises and still maintains its position as an international financial，shipping and trading center.The practice of“one country，two systems”in Hong Kong has been a resounding success.This fully demonstrates that the principles of“one country，two systems”，“the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong”with a high degree of autonomy are scientific，feasible and viable.The successful practice of“one country，two systems”has won recognition throughout the world.Over the past year，China has made significant progress in its economy，living standard，foreign affairs，and national defense.China is closer to the goal of great rejuvenation than ever before.As major changes unseen in a century are unfolding at a faster pace，people are more confident in the country's path.Hong Kong's role and advantages of being rooted in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and opening itself to the world have become more prominent in the past year.Looking ahead，Hong Kong must seize new opportunities brought about by the BRI，transform them into an impetus for Hong Kong's socio-economic development，achieve complementary advantages and win-win development，and make new contributions to high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.Hong Kong also needs to integrate itself more proactively into China's overall development，make greater contributions to national development.
Over the past years since Hong Kong's return to the motherland，the“one country，two systems”policy has been transformed from a scientific concept into a vivid practice that constantly demonstrates its strong vitality.Undoubtedly，the practice of“one country，two systems”in Hong Kong is successful.It has not only consolidated and upgraded Hong Kong's position as an international financial，shipping，and trade center but also ensured the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong.The successful practice of“one country，two systems”in Hong Kong is mainly reflected in the following aspects.
First，under the guarantee of“one country，two systems”，Hong Kong has better played its role as an important bridge between the Chinese mainland and the rest of the world.After its return to the motherland，Hong Kong has actively integrated itself into China's overall development and carving out its role in national strategies，Hong Kong has maintained its strengths in its high degree of openness and in aligning with international rules.In doing so，the region has been playing an important role in raising China's opening up to a higher level with wider coverage and scope.With continuously expanding areas and enabling mechanisms for Hong Kong's cooperation and exchanges with the mainland，people in Hong Kong now have better opportunities to start their own businesses and make achievements.
Second，under the guarantee of“one country，two systems”，Hong Kong has overcome various hardships and challenges and advanced steadily forward.Be it the global financial crisis，the COVID-19 pandemic，or social unrest，none of them have stopped Hong Kong from marching forward.Over the past 25 years，Hong Kong has developed into one of the world's freest economies，an international financial center，trade and shipping center，and is thriving in innovation，technology，culture and the arts.Hong Kong's urban social vitality and the average life expectancy of its residents are among the highest in the world，and its status as an international financial，shipping and trading center has been further consolidated and enhanced.Today，Hong Kong is stable and prosperous.Its financial system remains sound，capital flows freely，human resources are abundant，its legal environment is sound，its unique position of connecting the mainland with the world is becoming more prominent，and its innovative science and technology industries have been booming.It has remained one of the most liberal and open economies in the world，it has also maintained a world-class business environment，its previous laws including the practice of the common law have been maintained and developed，various social programs have made all-around progress，and overall social stability has been ensured.As a cosmopolis，Hong Kong's vitality has impressed the world.
Third，under the guarantee of“one country，two systems”，with the policy of the people of Hong Kong administering Hong Kong and a high degree of autonomy in practice，Hong Kong's original capitalist system and lifestyle remain unchanged.Hong Kong has ensured its people enjoy their status as masters of the region，and the residents enjoy more extensive democratic rights and freedoms than ever in history.Since its return，Hong Kong's constitutional order based on Constitution of the People's Republic of China and The Basic Law of the HKSAR has been maintained in a steady and sound manner.The central government's overall jurisdiction over Hong Kong has been well implemented，and a high degree of autonomy in the region has been exercised as it should.The central government formulated The Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the HKSAR ，which has been adapted.The electoral system of Hong Kong has been improved，thereby materializing the principle that Hong Kong should be administered by patriots，thus creating conditions for Hong Kong's democratic development to return to the right track.Nowadays，Hong Kong people live in a more stable and secure environment；the relationship between the executive and the legislature is compatible，the effectiveness of the SAR's governance has been enhanced，and global investors have more confidence in Hong Kong's future and brighter prospects.
Therefore，“one country，two systems”has achieved considerable success in Hong Kong in terms of economic and social development.From disarray to good governance，Hong Kong is entering a new phase of becoming more prosperous.Adherence to the“one country，two systems”principle is crucial to its future development.
The development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road cooperation are both China's major development strategies.We should continue to develop the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area，which is conducive to deepening exchanges and cooperation among the mainland，Hong Kong and Macao，and is of great significance for Hong Kong and Macao to integrate into the country's overall development，enhance their competitiveness and maintain long-term prosperity and stability.The BRI is necessary for China to expand and deepen openingup and promote all-around improvements to China's open economy.It is also a concrete practice for China to implement a more proactive opening-up strategy.Hong Kong should seize the great opportunities brought up by the Belt and Road cooperation and the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area，give full play to its advantages，and comprehensively deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with the mainland.In the future，how should Hong Kong seize the important opportunity brought by the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road cooperation to leverage its advantages and serve the country？Hong Kong should stay committed to the basis of“one country”，and leverage well the benefits of“two systems”.Making good use of these two advantages will enable Hong Kong to give full play to its strengths and serve the country.This can be fully reflected in promoting the implementation of Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the BRI.
Chun-ying Leung，Vice Chairman of the 14 th National Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference，Meets with Baige ZHAO，Chair of Advisory Committee of RDI
Under the framework of“one country，two systems”，Hong Kong enjoys unparalleled advantages and can play a unique role.
First，based on the“one country，two systems”policy，Hong Kong has an economic and social system that is different from that of mainland cities and has an international trade network，as well as an open market and vision.As a part of China，Hong Kong enjoys preferential treatment under the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement（CEPA）and mutually beneficial measures in the stock market such as the“Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect”and“Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect”.
Second，China's 14 th Five-Year Plan and the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area bring opportunities to all walks of life in Hong Kong.The future cooperation between Hong Kong and the mainland is not limited to traditional manufacturing and trade，but also includes financial services，professional services and sci-tech innovation.With a high degree of internationalization，Hong Kong has accumulated rich experience and advantages in international finance，trade，shipping，etc.Hong Kong and mainland cities in the Greater Bay Area are highly complementary，and the combination of two vital forces can play an important role in national development.Such cooperation not only includes Hong Kong's traditional advantages such as finance，trade and shipping，but also can make greater breakthroughs in sci-tech innovation and education.Hong Kong has substantial advantages in basic scientific research but shortcomings in applying scientific research achievements and mass production.In this regard，Guangdong has a well-developed manufacturing chain.We should promote the accelerated aggregation of sci-tech innovation resources of Guangdong and Hong Kong to enhance the overall scientific research capability of the Greater Bay Area while providing more space for the application of scientific research achievements in Hong Kong.
Third，Hong Kong has the great advantage of being a“super-connector”.The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is huge，and Hong Kong，as a small economy，has limited strength in developing the Greater Bay Area despite its relatively high level of development.Therefore，to benefit from the development of the Greater Bay Area，it needs to build up effective strategies，seize the opportunity to work with neighboring cities，and work with and draw on the strength of the mainland and international forces.Hong Kong should seize the strategic opportunities of the new era，give full play to Hong Kong's role as a“super-connector”between China and the world，proactively dovetail with national strategies，and actively participate in the development of the Greater Bay Area.It should focus on major issues，including enhancing professional skills and infrastructure networks，to unleash new momentum for Hong Kong's development and make new contributions to China.
Fourth，with the support of the 14 th Five-Year Plan，Hong Kong will consolidate its status in the four traditional centers，namely international financial，transportation and trade centers as well as center for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region，and develop the“four emerging centers”，namely an international aviation hub，an international innovation and technology center，a regional intellectual property trading hub and an East-meets-West center for international cultural exchange.Moreover，the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area will also bring significant opportunities to Hong Kong.Hong Kong will develop into an international innovation and technology hub，creating a cooperative effect with other cities in the Greater Bay Area.The Northern Metropolis under construction，connected with Shenzhen and accounting for about one-third of Hong Kong's area，will focus on developing innovative technology to bring together talents from Hong Kong，other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area，and overseas.In building a new dual-circulation development pattern and promoting the high-quality development of Belt and Road cooperation，Hong Kong can play a unique role that no mainland city can match.Hong Kong can continue leveraging the dual advantages of“one country”and“two systems”to contribute more to national development while developing itself.
Hong Kong enjoys double prime under the framework of“one country，two systems”，and it，as a“super-connector”，connects the mainland to the rest of the world，including Belt and Road countries.As an important platform and node for the BRI，Hong Kong is leveraging its advantages in international finance，trade，and professional services to promote collaboration between Hong Kong and the mainland，BRI countries，and regional partners to explore new economic growth points.It is mainly reflected in the following aspects.
First，Hong Kong has been actively involved in the BRI as a“super-connector”.Since the BRI was put forward，Hong Kong has responded enthusiastically and made active arrangements from the official to the private sector.Hong Kong is an important node of the BRI.Foreign and potential economic and trade partners also value Hong Kong's role as a“super-connector”to connect them with the Chinese mainland.Hong Kong is the most cosmopolitan city in China.Under the BRI，if mainland enterprises wish to go global，Hong Kong will be a good partner，so the SAR government attaches importance to all work related to the BRI.To this end，the Hong Kong SAR government has launched booklets to introduce the achievements of Hong Kong people pursuing a career overseas.Over the years，Hong Kong people and enterprises have laid a good foundation in many Belt and Road countries.In 2016，the Hong Kong SAR government set up a“Belt and Road Office”to study and formulate strategies and policies for participating in the BRI.In 2018，the Hong Kong SAR government announced in the Policy Address five priorities，including strengthening policy connectivity，leveraging Hong Kong's strengths，and promoting collaboration with the mainland and BRI countries and regional partners.The Hong Kong Trade Development Council has established the“‘Belt and Road'Committee”，attracting 121 member institutions from 30 countries and regions to join，with a membership of more than 5 million.In the private sector，in 2017，several Hong Kong enterprises jointly initiated and established the Belt and Road General Chamber of Commerce，under which the“Financial Services Commission”，“Major Infrastructure Committee”，“Trade Committee”and“Professional Services Committee”were set up.The Chamber invites industry participants and experts from various sectors to join and make recommendations on sustainable development for participation in the BRI.In 2018，the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and China International Contractors Association established the Mainland China-Hong Kong Belt and Road Business and Professional Services Council in Hong Kong to build an exchange platform between Hong Kong professional service circles and mainland enterprises，and promote cooperation between them in BRI countries and regions.Information websites have been established，research reports released，“Belt &Road”policy lectures held，and seminars and other related activities held frequently.
Second，Hong Kong is giving full play to its advantages in the BRI as a“super connector”.For Hong Kong，the“one country，two systems”policy is the significant advantage，and the reform and opening-up is the greatest stage.In China's reform and opening-up process in the new era，Hong Kong's unique position and role will only be strengthened，not diminished.Although Hong Kong has faced some challenges in the past few years，the advantages of the business environment have not changed，and the number of international companies in Hong Kong has remained stable.By the end of 2021，the total number of mainland and overseas enterprises with offices in Hong Kong reached a record high of 9，049，fully reflecting international investors'recognition of Hong Kong's business environment and their firm confidence in Hong Kong's development prospects.As an international financial center，Hong Kong also has natural advantages in financing.Nowadays，Hong Kong also takes a multi-pronged approach to explore diversified financing services under the BRI.For example，the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong has issued guidelines for infrastructure companies to list and finance in Hong Kong.The SAR government has implemented the Pilot Bond Grant Scheme and the Green Bond Grant Scheme.On the legal front，with a highly internationalized law industry，a mature and robust legal system，an excellent international network，and extensive experience in dealing with cross-border trade and multilateral legal issues，Hong Kong can provide a 24/7 secured legal service platform to protect Chinese enterprises after they“go global”.At the same time，Hong Kong has gathered excellent professional service organizations worldwide，with many professionals in financial accounting，financial investment，risk management，engineering，and construction industries，which can provide reliable guarantees for the continuous promotion of the BRI.
Third，to be a good“super-connector”under the BRI，Hong Kong needs to come down to earth.Over the years，Hong Kong has spared no effort to cooperate with BRI countries and regions in various areas.Regarding exhibition services，the Belt and Road International Food Expo Hong Kong 2019 was held in Hong Kong.Exhibitors from more than 30 countries and regions exhibited thousands of featured products at the Expo，which aims to build a two-way platform for the import and export trade of food and agricultural products for the BRI countries and regions.In terms of preventing and combating corruption，in the past year alone，the Independent Commission Against Corruption has provided advisory and training services to 40 BRI countries.The disciplined services of Hong Kong have also provided training courses for some BRI countries.In terms of cultivating sci-tech innovation industry，the BRI has opened up more development space for Hong Kong.Many scientific research institutions，teams and individuals from BRI countries and regions have come to Hong Kong Science Park to incubate science and technology innovation projects.For mainland enterprises，Hong Kong，as an important international hub，will become the bridge for mainland high-tech enterprises to go global.In addition，in green manufacturing，urban planning，tourism，public health，and other advantageous fields，Hong Kong's professionals have been actively engaged in exchanges and cooperation with BRI countries to help them improve professional standards.
Fourth，Hong Kong has many advantages in promoting people-to-people communication among BRI countries，including language，culture and system.With a history of more than 100 years，Hong Kong's private charities have formed an enormous force for free medication，support for the aged and school children，a fine culture of private donations，and a great talent pool.
The development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the BRI cooperation can be well integrated in Hong Kong.Nowadays，not only Hong Kong residents but also the international community values Hong Kong's advantages and the role it can play in these two aspects.Many countries want to seize the opportunities brought up by the BRI through Hong Kong.Development is the“golden key”to solve various problems in Hong Kong.The central government fully supports Hong Kong's participation in the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road cooperation.In the 14 th Five-Year Plan，the central government explicitly supports Hong Kong in enhancing its international status as a financial，shipping and trade center and an aviation hub，and building itself into an international innovation and technology center，an international legal and dispute resolution services center in the Asia-Pacific Region，a regional intellectual property trading hub，and an East-meets-West center for international cultural exchange.On the new journey to achieve the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation，Hong Kong will continue to make good use of the advantages of the“one country，two systems”policy to contribute to the country.The development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the BRI cooperation are related to business and promoting the understanding and exchange of local cultures and the friendship development between different groups and personnel，especially young people.I hope young people in Hong Kong can cross the Shenzhen River to seek a broader stage and contribute to the national development.As our country develops，it will provide a broader stage for career development for all age groups in Hong Kong，especially our young people.Young people should not confine themselves to Hong Kong but explore and communicate more with the world.
Over the past 25 years since its return to the motherland，Hong Kong，with strong support from the motherland，has achieved significant economic and social development.Its allure of being a vibrant metropolis where the East meets the West has remained as strong as ever.Hong Kong，under the support of the central government，has overcome many crises and still maintains its position as an international financial，shipping，and trading center.Under the practice of“one country，two systems”，Hong Kong's financial system remains sound，capital flows freely，human resources are abundant，the legal environment is good，and its unique position of connecting the mainland with the world is becoming more prominent.However，we cannot be complacent，nor must we not belittle ourselves.From disarray to good governance，Hong Kong is entering a new phase of becoming more prosperous.Adherence to the“one country，two systems”principle is crucial to its future development.The principle of“one country，two systems”，“the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong”with a high degree of autonomy have achieved overall success in resolving the Hong Kong question and maintained Hong Kong's prosperity and stability.Hong Kong should contribute to China's comprehensive opening-up in a more proactive manner，integrate itself more proactively into the overall development of China，participate in national governance more proactively，and proactively push for more international people-to-people exchanges，as President Xi Jinping requested when he met with a delegation from the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions to mark the 40 th anniversary of our country's reform and opening-up.Moving forward，Hong Kong will make greater contributions to national development.I believe our country，Hong Kong，and Chinese people will have a brighter future.
Looking back at the past three years，the protracted COVID-19 pandemic severely affected Macao's economy，people's livelihood，and employment.Under the leadership and support of the central government，the SAR government has adhered to the national pandemic prevention measures and prioritized safeguarding the lives and health of the residents.While making every effort to tackle the pandemic，the SAR government firmly implements the“one country，two systems”principle，solidly promotes various administrative work and the continuous development of various undertakings in the SAR.In the new year，the SAR government will fully implement the spirit of the report to the 20 th National Congress of the CPC，seize the opportunities for national development in accordance with the overall direction of governance，and make good use of the central government's policies and measures to support Macao's development，focus on promoting economic recovery.The SAR government will actively improve people's livelihood，accelerate the moderate and diversified economic growth and the development of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin，and better integrate itself into the overall development of China，promote new achievements in various undertakings of the Macao SAR.The SAR government will also create new prospects for the practice of“one country，two systems”with Macao characteristics，and make new contributions to advancing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization.
In the years since the return of Macao to the motherland，Macao took on a completely new look in economic and social aspects.The policy of“one country，two systems”has been proven by history and practice to be an incredible creation in the history of human institutions and civilization.It is the optimal solution to Hong Kong and Macao questions left by history.The successful practice of“one country，two systems”in Macao is mainly reflected in the following aspects.
First，“loving the motherland and loving Macao”has become the core values firmly established in the whole community of Macao.Second，with the support of the motherland，Macao has overcome the severe challenges posed by the unfavorable changes in the external environment，the dramatic social unrest，and the COVID-19 pandemic and has maintained its prosperous and stable development.Third，Macao's status in regional cooperation and China's overall development have become increasingly prominent.Macao regards its integration into China's overall development as the greatest opportunity to solve its problems and explore new development paths.It fully uses a series of favorable policies and measures for Macao issued by the central government to promote its prosperity.It firmly fosters the development of a world center of tourism and leisure and a service platform for business cooperation between China and Portuguesespeaking countries.In particular，Macao has proactively dovetailed with national strategies such as the Belt and Road cooperation and the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area，striving to combine the“advantages of Macao meet the needs of the country”and the“advantages of the state meet the needs of Macao”，to expand new space and inject new impetus for the development of Macao.Fourth，Macao should give full play to its institutional advantage of“the benefits of‘one country'and the convenience of‘two systems'”and speed up its integration into China's overall development.Macao and the mainland can complement each other and develop together.Over the past decade，Macao has integrated itself more proactively into China's overall development and taken the initiative to dovetail with national development strategies，comprehensively expanded the areas of exchanges and cooperation with the mainland and constantly improved the exchange and cooperation mechanism.Macao has become an important platform for China's two-way opening-up，especially for economic and trade exchanges with Portuguese-speaking countries.It gives full play to the advantages of a high degree of freedom and opening-up and smooth connection with international rules.It plays an essential function in constructing a new pattern of opening up to the outside world in a greater scope，wider field，and more profound level.
Macao is in an important period of opportunity for transformative development，and the practice of“one country，two systems”has entered a new stage.Looking ahead，we must unswervingly，comprehensively and accurately implement the“one country，two systems”policy，implement the principle that“Macao should be governed by patriots”to maintain Macao's long-term prosperity and stability and create new prospects for the practice of“one country，two systems”with Macao characteristics.
“Support Hong Kong and Macao in better integrating themselves into China's overall development”，the report to the 20 th National Congress of the CPC said.Whether in times of turbulence or peaceful period of rapid social and economic development，the state will always be the“backbone”and the reliable and robust support for Macao's long-term prosperity and stability.Only by integrating into China's overall development can Macao obtain stronger development momentum，broader development space，and brighter development prospects，can the confidence of Hong Kong and Macao compatriots in national development and national rejuvenation constantly enhanced，and can Macao and the mainland complement each other's advantages and develop in coordination and share the prosperity and strength of China.The special discussion on the work of Hong Kong and Macao in the report to the 20 th National Congress of the CPC provides a fundamental guideline for the work of Macao.In the future，the Macao SAR government will make better use of its advantage of having a close connection with the world market and strong support from the motherland，implement the development positioning of“one enter（a world center of tourism and leisure），one platform（a service platform for business cooperation between China and Portuguese-speaking countries）and one base（a base for exchange and cooperation with Chinese culture as the mainstream and multi-cultural coexistence）”，enhance the linkage effect of resources in domestic and international markets，to achieve new development and break new ground.2023 is crucial for deepening the development of the In-Depth Cooperation Zone and achieving the goals of the first stage.In-Depth Cooperation Zone is a brand-new concept that should be considered and planned with bold and innovative thinking to break through the existing bottleneck.Efforts can be made in the following nine aspects to solidly promote the development of Hengqin and to better integrate it into national development.
First，strengthen cooperation with Guangdong.We should accelerate the orderly promotion of comprehensive legislation in the In-Depth Cooperation Zone，continue to communicate with relevant national ministries，and promote the implementation of supporting regulation measures for“hierarchical management”and tax policies as soon as possible.We should promote the introduction and implementation of special measures for relaxing restrictions on market access in the In-Depth Cooperation Zone，catalogue of encouraged industries and other major supporting measures as soon as possible，and explore the establishment of an international Internet cross-border data management system to facilitate the efficient and convenient flow of factor resources.
Second，accelerate the formulation of the In-Depth Cooperation Zone Development and Investment Company establishment plan.We should promote the issuance and implementation of the list of the first batch of authorized items，take the lead in establishing a legal rule system and mechanism deeply integrated with Macao in the civil and commercial fields such as market regulation，commercial registration，intellectual property rights，cross-border practice，commercial dispute resolution，etc.，to provide legal guarantee for the development of the In-Depth Cooperation Zone.
Third，focus on industries to take well-targeted steps.With the promotion of diversified industrial development in Macao as the main task，we should scientifically study and select the segments of industries in the In-Depth Cooperation Zone，and accelerate the introduction of high-quality and precise industrial policies.We should make full use of the unique advantages of Macao's connection with the world as a free port，and the space and talent advantages of the In-Depth Cooperation Zone，and promote the efficient and convenient flow of people，logistics，capital flow and information flow in Macao and Hengqin.We should also identify ways to reduce the operating costs of enterprises and living costs of residents in the In-Depth Cooperation Zone，provide a hub platform for mainland enterprises“going global”and“bringing in”international enterprises，and form a new coordinated development of industries as“Macao platform+international resources+Hengqin space+achievement sharing”.
Fourth，promote the high-quality development of modern financial industry.We should accelerate the introduction of financial industry policies such as wealth management，green finance，support for the development and listing of small and mediumsized enterprises，and fully cooperate with the national financial management department to implement the development plan of the capital electronic fence system in the In-Depth Cooperation Zone.We should build important financial infrastructure，explore the coordinated development of onshore and offshore businesses under the principle of controllable risks，and promote the convenient circulation of funds between Macao and the mainland.We should facilitate cross-border transfer of green financial assets and further open capital transfer channels with Macao.We should encourage high-quality enterprises to set up financial leasing companies in Macao to carry out cross-border business coordinately，and support the capital in Macao and Guangdong to jointly strive to land financial licenses such as banking subsidiaries and consumer finance companies in the In-Depth Cooperation Zone.With reference to the cross-border financial cooperation mechanism，we will explore ways to jointly set up a financial regulation committee for the In-Depth Cooperation Zone and establish a sound pilot coordination and communication mechanism for the innovative financial regulation tools.
Fifth，vigorously develop high-tech industries.We should actively promote the implementation of semiconductor chip manufacturing projects，conduct investment attraction work in the meta-universe industry，and accelerate the industrial layout and enterprise aggregation.We should steadily promote the construction of a permanent base for Hengqin's advanced intelligent computing platform，and promote the establishment of the computing platform as a large-scale scientific facility.We should cooperate with the In-Depth Cooperation Zone to promote Macao's scientific researchers to apply for national sci-tech programmes and support Macao's scientific research projects to carry out joint R&D and achievement application in the Zone.
Sixth，promote the development of the big health industry.We should integrate the advantages of Traditional Chinese Medicine（TCM）in Guangdong and Macao，and intensify efforts to promote cooperation in the TCM industry between Guangdong and Macao.We should optimize the development mode of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Industrial Park of Co-operation between Guangdong and Macao，accelerate the implementation of medical and health projects，and focus on the development of classical TCM prescription pharmacy，TCM testing and certification，intermediate test for application，production and manufacturing and other formats.We should promote the construction of Hengqin Hospital of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University in an orderly manner.
Seventh，strengthen the cultural tourism，exhibition and trade industry.We should promote in-depth cooperation in industries such as cultural and creative，exhibition，consumption，and big health，and jointly create the tourism IP for Macao and Hengqin.We should accelerate the development of extension and expansion zones for Macao's cultural tourism and exhibition industries，and hold the International High Quality Consumption Expo and World Bay Area Forum.
Eighth，create a livable and business-friendly living environment similar to Macao.The Macau New Neighbourhood（MNN）project was completed，the residential units are ready for sale，and the supporting livelihood facilities are being built simultaneously.We should accelerate the implementation of public services and welfare systems specified in Macao standards to Hengqin，and continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation between Macao and Hengqin in education，medical care，culture and other social and livelihood fields.We should assist Macao residents to find jobs in the In-Depth Cooperation Zone，and adopt targeted measures to attract Macao youths to conduct innovation entrepreneurship and employment in the Zone and introduce various special internship programmes in high-tech industries for Macao youths in due course.We should adopt measures to facilitate the cross-border practice of Macao's medical personnel in the Zone and strive for the use of drugs and medical devices legally used in Macao in the Zone.
Ninth，deepen regional cooperation.We should implement Key Work Arrangements for the Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in 2023 and various special plans，and actively cooperate with and participate in formulating various policies and plans，promote Guangdong-Macao cooperation and implement special cooperation tasks with Shenzhen and Foshan.We should actively participate in the Pan-PRD regional cooperation，encourage local governments and qualified enterprises in the Pan-PRD provinces and regions to raise funds through the Macao bond market，and strengthen collaboration with the Pan-PRD provinces and regions in fields such as tourism and exhibition，culture，and education，sci-tech innovation，ecological and environmental protection，and TCM industry.
In the future，promoting moderate and diversified economic development and striving to build a moderately diversified industrial structure will be the primary tasks faced by the Macao SAR government and the community of Macao.The 2023 Policy Address stated that the Macao SAR government must persistently adopt the“1+4”strategy of moderate and diversified development and optimize the industrial structure.“1”refers to promote the diversified development of tourism and leisure in accordance with the goal of building a world center of tourism and leisure，and making the integrated tourism and leisure industry better，more refined and stronger；“4”means to continuously promote the development of four key sectors，namely，big health，modern finance，high-tech，exhibition and trade and culture and sports，gradually increase the proportion of the four sectors，constantly enhance the momentum of economic development and comprehensive competitiveness，and strive to build an industrial structure conforming to the actual condition and sustainable development of Macao.In the future，measures will be taken to try to make the non-gambling industry account for approximately 60% of the gross domestic product in Macao.In 2023，we will focus on the industries and make precise efforts to develop Hengqin.We should accelerate the issuance of several high-quality and precise industrial policies，make full use of the unique advantages of Macao's connection with the world as a free port，as well as the space and talent advantages of the In-Depth Cooperation Zone，and promote the efficient and convenient flow of people，logistics，capital，and information in Macao and Hengqin.We should also identify ways to and reduce the operating costs of enterprises and living costs of residents in the In-Depth Cooperation Zone，provide a hub platform for mainland enterprises“going global”and“bringing in”international enterprises，and form a new coordinated development of industries as“Macao platform+international resources+Hengqin space+achievement sharing”.
Iat-seng HO，the 5 th Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region，Meets with Baige ZHAO，Chair of Advisory Committee of RDI
In 2023，Macao will still unswervingly safeguard national security and maintain overall social stability.Following the instructions of the report to the 20 th National Congress of the CPC，we will adhere to and improve the“one country，two systems”policy，implement the central government's overall jurisdiction over Macao，uphold the principle that Hong Kong and Macao should be administered by patriots，and implement the legal system and enforcement mechanism for safeguarding national security in the SAR.The Macao SAR will always ensure that the patriots control the political and jurisdiction power，promote the development and strengthening of the forces that love the motherland and Macao，and build a solid socio-political foundation for the sustainable implementation of the“one country，two systems”principle.Safeguarding national security is the constitutional responsibility of the Macao SAR.Revising and safeguarding National Security Law with the times is to strengthen the overall concept of national security further，strictly fulfill the constitutional responsibility of maintaining national security，and continuously strengthen the capacity building of safeguarding national security.The Macao SAR Government firmly upholds the central government's decisionmaking power over the political system of the Macao SAR，including the electoral system，and firmly implements the fundamental principle that“Macao should be administered by patriots”.By improving the electoral system of the Macao SAR，we will ensure that the jurisdiction power of Macao SAR is firmly controlled by patriots.
Looking back，2022 was a year of tremendous testing for Macao.Affected by the pandemic，Macao's major industrial and commercial activities were once suspended，and the macro economy faced unprecedented downward pressure.Now，the haze is dissipating，and Macao's economic and social development will gradually recover.Over the past three years，the Macao SAR has formulated measures in strict accordance with the central government's guidelines on pandemic prevention and control and has done an excellent job in regular pandemic prevention and control.The community has made concerted efforts to safeguard the demands of people's livelihood and ensure social stability and has always maintained personnel，economic and trade exchanges with the mainland.After the COVID-19 infection was adjusted to“Category B management”，Macao optimized and adjusted the pandemic prevention and control measures according to the times and circumstances.
In 2023，on the premise of conducting proper pandemic prevention and control and ensuring controllable pandemic risk，Macao SAR should make all kinds of welcoming arrangements，effectively implement policies and measures such as restoring electronic endorsements and tour groups for mainland residents to Macao，and gradually restore the vitality of tourism and economy.At present，the two important and urgent tasks in the economic field of the Macao SAR are to speed up economic recovery and promote moderate and diversified development.This is the only way to solve the deeprooted contradictions and problems in Macao's economic and social development.The next priority of the Macao SAR government is to develop the economy，actively improve people's livelihood，and continue to follow the general direction of the administration of“boosting the economy，promoting diversity，relieving people's hardship，preventing and controlling the pandemic，and developing steadily”，and make appropriate use of the policies and measures of the central government to support Macao's development.Macao's economy is expected to achieve moderate and diversified development，accelerate recovery and start again by actively integrating itself into the national economic circulation.
Looking ahead，multiple favorable factors for Macao's development are emerging，bringing great development opportunities.The Macao SAR government is confident for itself to adhere to the principle of“one country，two systems”，give full play to the advantage of“having a close connection with the world market and strong support from the motherland”，and seize the historical opportunity of China to promote a new round of high-level opening-up to the outside world.It will integrate itself more actively into China's overall development，fully implement the spirit of the report to the 20 th National Congress of the CPC，make good use of the policies and measures of the central government in support of Macao's development，strive to promote economic recovery and actively improve people's livelihood.We will constantly optimize the business environment against the international leading level，accelerate the moderate and diversified economic development and the development of the Guangdong-Macau In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin，and work together with the central government to create new prospects for the practice of“one country，two systems”with Macao characteristics.
[1] From President Xi's remarks when he met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Nice,France on March 24 th ,2019.https://language.chinadaily.com.cn/a/201903/28/WS5c9c3764a3104842260b30f6_2.html.
[2] Chun-ying Leung,Vice Chairman of the 14 th National Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference,the fourth Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region,President of Belt and Road Hong Kong Center,and Honorary President of Advisory Committee of RDI.
[3] Iat-seng HO,the 5 th Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region and Director of the Administrative Committee of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin.