Regional Cooperation key too Economic Resilience, Says Boao Forum Secretary General
RIYADH, saudi Arabia – Zhang Jun, Secretary General of teh Boao forum for Asia (BFA), emphasized the critical role of regional cooperation in navigating the challenges of unilateralism and protectionism. Speaking on the sidelines of the BFA Riyadh Conference 2025, Zhang stated that strengthened regional ties are essential for bolstering the security, diversity, and stability of industrial and supply chains, ultimately increasing economic resilience.
The conference, held in Riyadh from Wednesday to Thursday, drew over 300 participants from more than 10 countries, regions, and international organizations. Discussions centered on regional economic diversification, sustainable development, energy transition, and building resilience against global economic headwinds. Participants overwhelmingly agreed that embracing open development – encompassing open markets, inclusive dialog, and mutually beneficial outcomes – is the most effective path forward.
Zhang highlighted that the global economy is undergoing a significant conversion, facing pressures from protectionist policies while simultaneously entering a new phase driven by the digital and green economies. These emerging sectors present valuable opportunities for regional collaboration and economic restructuring.
He noted strong recognition of China’s commitment to multilateralism and open development, wiht attendees praising its efforts to expand high-standard opening-up and contribute to global economic governance and the energy transition. Saudi scholars and entrepreneurs, in particular, expressed optimism about future cooperation with China, citing the recent China-ASEAN-GCC Summit as a strategically important initiative. Strengthening cooperation between these three entities, Zhang believes, will unlock new opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.
The BFA, often called the “Asian Davos,” serves as a vital platform for regional dialogue on trade, investment, and technology, with increasing engagement from countries in the Global South. The next BFA Annual Conference will be held in Boao, Hainan Province, China from March 24-27, 2026, and is expected to play an even more significant role in fostering understanding and collaboration in the evolving global landscape.
