China urges G20 to place development at center of policy coordination

Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday called on the Group of 20 (G20) members to place the issue of development at the center of macro-policy coordination.

“The most urgent issue at present is development,” said Li at the third session of the 18th G20 summit in New Delhi, India.

Noting that the theme of the session was “One Future,” he said the yearning for a better future has always been the beacon that leads mankind forward.

The world is undergoing a difficult period of complex and volatile development, and as the difficulties intensify, there is an increasingly important need to strengthen confidence and enhance expectations for the future, he added.

“Only by doing a good job in the present can we have a good future,” Li said, calling on the G20 to play an exemplary role.

Efforts should be made to establish a more pragmatic cooperation mechanism and concrete action taken to support developing countries in better coping with challenges such as poverty reduction, financing, climate change, and food and energy security, said the Chinese premier.

He also called for practicing true multilateralism, building partnerships for global development and creating a secure and stable international environment for common development.

According to other leaders who spoke at the session, the G20 should demonstrate responsibility, promote international cooperation, foster inclusive, sustainable and people-centered development and ensure that the application of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence enhances human well-being.

The summit adopted the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration.

(With input from Xinhua)