As global leaders grapple with rising protectionism and fragmented cooperation, China is pushing for a fresh approach to international governance—one that builds on existing systems rather than tearing them down. At the 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown highlighted China’s role in shaping a more connected world economy. 🔄
🌟 Why It Matters: Brown praised China’s 'spectacularly successful' economic growth over 40 years, lifting millions out of poverty and boosting global education access. 'Your achievements challenge all countries to do better,' he said, referencing China’s near-universal primary and secondary school enrollment—a stark contrast to 260 million children worldwide still out of school.
🤝 Collaboration Over Competition: Brown emphasized lessons from the 2008 financial crisis, when China joined the G20 to steer global recovery. Today, he argues for similar unity on climate action, pandemic preparedness, and trade reforms. 'We need institutions like the UN and WTO to evolve, not vanish,' he added, aligning with China’s call for 'innovation, not reinvention' in global governance.
🌱 Sustainable Solutions: From carbon neutrality goals to a new 'fund of funds' for pandemic prevention, Brown sees common ground between China and the West. 'Trade liberalization and dispute mechanisms can make globalization work for everyone,' he noted, pointing to China’s RCEP trade bloc as a model for regional cooperation.
💡 The Takeaway: As Brown put it: 'If we design the future using yesterday’s blueprint, we’ll miss tomorrow’s opportunities.' With crises like climate change demanding urgent action, China’s push for upgraded global frameworks could be the catalyst the world needs. 🚀
