Global leaders and thinkers gathered in Beijing this week for the 13th World Peace Forum, sparking urgent conversations about international cooperation in an era of rising tensions. With debates ranging from tariff wars to historical accountability, here's what you need to know:
🕊️ 'Zero-Sum Games Are Dead Ends'
Cui Tiankai, China's former U.S. ambassador, warned against nations pursuing 'absolute security' at others' expense: "When you treat global politics like a TikTok competition – trying to 'win' views by sabotaging others – everyone loses." His remarks come as geopolitical rivalries intensify worldwide.
⚖️ 80 Years Later: Peace Still Fragile
Liu Jianchao of the CPC Central Committee highlighted lessons from WWII's 80th anniversary: "Our grandparents dreamed of lasting peace. Now we're battling the same old demons – but with nukes and AI." He pushed for a new global security framework that benefits all nations.
💼 Tariff Wars = Economic Self-Sabotage
EU veteran Herman van Rompuy slammed protectionism: "Trade barriers are like bad breakups – messy, expensive, and nobody wins." His comments follow recent U.S.-China tech restrictions and EU anti-subsidy probes.
🇯🇵🇰🇷🇨🇳 East Asia's Power Trio Steps Up
Former Japanese PM Yukio Hatoyama made waves urging "an East Asian Avengers squad" against U.S. dominance. His 3-point plan? 1️⃣ Speed up China-Japan-South Korea trade deals 2️⃣ Hold annual leadership summits 3️⃣ Confront Japan's wartime past head-on "We can't build trust while ignoring history," he admitted – a rare stance from a Japanese leader.
With 50+ nations represented, the forum's message was clear: In our TikTok-speed world 🌐, cooperation isn't just nice – it's necessary survival gear.
