Beijing, January 21 – In a significant appearance at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, He Lifeng, a key member of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee Politburo and Vice Premier of the State Council, delivered a compelling speech outlining China’s vision for global economic cooperation.
He Lifeng opened his address by recalling President Xi Jinping’s landmark 2017 speech at the same forum, where Xi underscored China’s unwavering commitment to multilateralism and free trade. Since then, Xi has championed four major global initiatives designed to tackle pressing international challenges with pragmatic Chinese solutions.
The Vice Premier laid out four core principles for advancing global prosperity. First, the world must steadfastly champion free trade and collaborate to foster inclusive economic globalization. Supply chain disruptions and rising protectionism have tested the resilience of global markets, but He emphasized that open trade remains the bedrock of mutual growth.
Second, bolstering multilateralism is essential to reform and perfect a more equitable international economic and trade order. Institutions like the WTO need strengthening to ensure fair play amid evolving geopolitical tensions.
Third, partnerships should adhere to mutual benefit, expanding cooperative horizons to address development gaps. From infrastructure projects under the Belt and Road to green technology transfers, China seeks win-win outcomes that uplift emerging economies.
Finally, He Lifeng called for mutual respect and equal consultation, urging dialogue to manage differences constructively. In an era of discord, he argued, constructive engagement offers the best path to resolving trade disputes and fostering stability.
His remarks resonated with delegates grappling with sluggish post-pandemic recovery and geopolitical uncertainties. As China positions itself as a stabilizing force, He Lifeng’s Davos debut signals Beijing’s proactive role in shaping the global economic agenda for 2026 and beyond.
