Reflection from the Boao Forum for Asia on global uncertainties

It was an honor to attend the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference this year as an academic delegate, joining over 2,000 representatives from 60 countries. In a world increasingly shaped by geopolitical rifts and economic volatility, the forum carried significant weight.

Multilateralism resonated strongly throughout the forum. Amid rising geopolitical uncertainty, participants widely agreed that no nation can address global challenges alone; a cooperative, UN-centered approach is essential. Speakers such as Wang Huiyao, president of the Center for China and Globalization, and Professor Kishore Mahbubani underscored multilateralism as vital for navigating contemporary tensions. Asia's recent experience supports this view: the region contributed about 60 percent of global economic growth in 2024, driven largely by cooperative initiatives. Frameworks such as the RCEP, which enhance trade and economic integration, exemplify this cooperative success. Such experiences affirm the forum's conviction that multilateral engagement, rather than unilateralism, offers the most reliable path through uncertain times.

Another central theme at Boao this year was the necessity of multifaceted cooperation across various sectors to tackle complex developmental challenges. The digital economy featured prominently. As one speaker remarked, international cooperation is now essential rather than optional, with significant investment in digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence crucial to Asia's sustained economic dynamism.

Green development also stood out in the discussions. Asian countries are accelerating their transition to low-carbon growth, viewing sustainability as imperative rather than supplementary. Joint renewable energy initiatives and innovative regional carbon market projects illustrate the region's conviction that economic prosperity must align with environmental responsibility. Upholding the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, governments in Asia are collaboratively integrating carbon trading systems, sharing green technologies, and generating green employment opportunities. These regional efforts underscore Asia's commitment to global climate leadership alongside its pursuit of economic growth.

Equally critical was the forum's focus on demographic issues, particularly aging populations. Asia is aging faster than any other region; in 2023, individuals aged over 60 accounted for 14.2 percent of its population, a figure projected to nearly double to 1.3 billion by 2050. Such rapid aging places significant stress on pension and healthcare systems. Forum experts emphasized immediate reforms. Many Asian countries are already raising retirement ages, adjusting pension contributions, and expanding private pension schemes. Delegates agreed that continued regional cooperation and the exchange of best practices are essential to safeguard development gains against demographic pressures. Through integrated action in digital, environmental, and social sectors, Asia is exemplifying a comprehensive, cooperative approach to future challenges.

A notable takeaway of the forum was the need on multidimensional thinking. In an era of complex global problems, one dimensional approach is not enough. At Boao, political, economic, technological and cultural perspectives were brought together in search of practical solutions. Discussions ranged from proposals for reforming global governance and security systems to innovations in artificial intelligence, green energy, and inclusive finance. Scholars and policymakers stressed the importance of civilizational diversity and cultural exchange, recognizing that mutual understanding can reinforce trust in an increasingly fragmented world.

This integrative approach encourages cross-sector collaboration. For example, poverty reduction was framed not just in terms of economic aid, but also through technological empowerment and respect for local culture. As former UN secretary-general Ban Ki-moon noted, Asia has become a leading voice for multilateralism, open trade and globalization, with the so-called Asian Miracle built on integration rather than isolation. Asia's achievements have come from engaging on multiple fronts — linking peace with development, and innovation with inclusion. This holistic mindset stands in contrast to fragmented or zero-sum thinking and reflects the forum's core strength: combining diverse voices to shape more effective responses to global challenges.

The forum's value lies in how its principles of cooperation and shared development are reflected in real policy and corporate decisions. Encouragingly, Asia is already moving forward — through expanded trade agreements, digital partnerships and coordinated green initiatives. The multilateral, multifaceted and multidimensional voices heard at Boao offer a compelling answer to the uncertainties of our time. Looking ahead, translating this consensus into concrete steps — from climate action to inclusive innovation — will be essential. In this process, other regions, including Europe, have much to contribute as well. The road forward is not easy, but the path of cooperation offers the clearest direction toward a more stable, connected and inclusive world instead of a more fragmented and pessimistic one.

Tha author is an associate professor at the School of European Studies in the Beijing International Studies University, and a non-resident research fellow at the Center for China and Globalization. The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

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