Speaking at the 20th East Asia Summit (EAS) in Malaysia, Chinese Premier Li Qiang stated that China is ready to actively advance its “Global Governance Initiative.” He noted that the initiative, proposed by President Xi Jinping, aims to inject “positive energy” into regional peace and development as the world enters a “new period of turbulence and transformation.”
Li called on all parties to adhere to sovereign equality, international rule of law, and multilateralism. He emphasized the need to focus on economic development, uphold the free trade system, and vigorously advance regional integration. Li also urged safeguarding the UN-centered international system and supporting ASEAN’s centrality in the regional architecture, while simultaneously promoting reforms for a “more just and reasonable” global governance system.
Other leaders at the meeting noted rising geopolitical conflicts and protectionism, calling for adherence to the UN Charter and multilateralism. They agreed to strengthen practical cooperation to address challenges such as energy and food security, climate change, and public health. The meeting concluded with the adoption of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on the 20th Anniversary of the EAS.
