Openness and inclusive development for a shared future

The forum will also emphasize inclusive growth through topics such as ESG, corporate transformation and sustainable development.

China's commitment to high-level opening up is expected to provide long-term certainty to the global economy. The Hainan Free Trade Port, in particular, has become a focal point. With its island-wide independent customs operation advancing steadily, it is emerging as a new gateway for international investment and cooperation.

A series of events, including the Global Free Trade Port Development Forum, will showcase Hainan's role in promoting institutional opening up and facilitating global connectivity.

Wu Shicun, chairman of the Huayang Center for Maritime Cooperation and Ocean Governance and founding president of the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, said that Asian countries are increasingly moving from "passive response" to "active shaping" in addressing global challenges.

"At the annual conference, Asian countries will demonstrate both the capacity and wisdom to propose solutions for addressing risks, strengthening cooperation and achieving shared prosperity, ranging from green transition and the digital economy to AI security, as well as from regional integration to advancing global governance initiatives, thereby injecting greater certainty into an uncertain world," Wu noted.