International forums underscore China’s enduring push to open up

In the past, foreigners wondered how much of a five-year plan would be realised. They have begun to see that it is not entirely about a planned economy, but also guidance. More of them have recognised that China delivers what it plans, prompting them to seek out opportunities arising from the vision.

As a result, they want an in-depth interpretation from Chinese officials and experts. So both forums remain important today, and perhaps more so because the Iran war has further disrupted stressed global supply chains amid growing geopolitical tension, conflict and uncertainty.

In this environment, while China may still face its own economic challenges, it appears to offer a comparatively attractive economic climate to foreign companies – including more supply chain resilience, a stable political environment and more predictable foreign policies. In that regard, as the US-Israeli war on Iran continues, Premier Li Qiang told the development forum that China remains “committed to serving as a cornerstone of stability and a haven of stability for the world”, and pledged to continue China’s opening up.