By Favour Ulebor, Abuja

China has called for stronger global cooperation, warning against rising protectionism and geopolitical tensions, while pledging expanded economic support for developing regions, including Africa.

This was contained in a statement by Hui An, Professor at the China Africa Think Tank Research Center, on Tuesday, following the conclusion of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2026.

Hui said the forum, held in Hainan’s Qiongjing region, brought together nearly 2,000 political, business and academic delegates from over 60 countries and regions, focusing on the theme, “Shaping a Shared Future: New Situation, New Opportunities, New Cooperation.”

According to him, the gathering came at a time of global uncertainty marked by weak economic recovery, persistent geopolitical conflicts, and the rise of unilateralism and protectionism.

He stressed that the forum reinforced the need for openness, inclusiveness and mutual benefit, noting that cooperation remains the most viable path to global stability and development.

“Countries must reject confrontation, exclusion, power politics and suspicion, and stay committed to peaceful development and open cooperation,” he stated.

Hui noted that China, as host of the forum and the world’s second largest economy, demonstrated its commitment to multilateralism through practical measures aimed at stabilising the global system.

He said China’s upcoming 15th Five Year Plan attracted wide attention at the forum, providing clear policy direction and boosting investor confidence globally.

On trade and economic cooperation, Hui disclosed that trade between China and ASEAN exceeded 7.55 trillion yuan in the past year, with the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership continuing to strengthen regional trade and supply chains.

He further revealed that China plans to expand market access for Africa by introducing zero tariffs on all taxable products from least developed African countries.

“This helps Africa translate resource advantages into development gains, embodying the genuine spirit of mutual benefit,” he said.

Highlighting technological and environmental cooperation, Hui said China’s advancements in artificial intelligence, renewable energy and digital infrastructure were widely recognised at the forum.

He added that China has continued to support Africa through practical initiatives, including solar power projects, agricultural technologies such as hybrid rice and juncao, as well as vocational training through Luban Workshops.

According to him, these efforts have delivered tangible benefits, particularly in improving electricity access, food production and technical skills across the continent.

On global governance, Hui reiterated China’s support for a more inclusive system that gives greater voice to developing countries, especially those in the Global South.

He said China remains committed to initiatives such as the Belt and Road cooperation, the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative, all aimed at promoting shared growth and stability.

Hui maintained that China’s approach to international cooperation is based on equality and mutual benefit, contrasting it with what he described as unilateral sanctions and economic coercion by some countries.

He added that after 25 years, the Boao Forum continues to serve as a vital platform for dialogue and global cooperation, extending beyond Asia.

He noted that China will continue to deepen cooperation with countries across the world in a bid to ensure long term peace, stability and shared development.