Chinese Premier Urges Strengthening Multilateral Trading System to Promote Global Economic Stability

Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered a strong call on Tuesday for all parties to resolutely uphold the multilateral trading system, emphasizing the essential role of the World Trade Organization at its center. In his address at the ASEAN-China-GCC Economic Forum 2025, Li highlighted the need for collective action to nurture a stable and orderly international market environment, especially in light of current global economic uncertainties.

The forum marked a key milestone by bringing together leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), China, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Premier Li described the event as the beginning of a "new chapter in trilateral cooperation," underscoring the summit’s in-depth discussions on synergizing economic opportunities for shared prosperity. He stressed that, in today’s interconnected world, overcoming shared challenges collectively paves the way for new opportunities.

Addressing the context of heightened geopolitical conflicts and confrontations, Li asserted that deepening mutual trust and enhancing solidarity among nations are crucial for creating long-term strategic opportunities. He stated that such efforts could drive sustained and stable development across regions. The premier also urged ASEAN, China, and GCC members to reaffirm their commitment to openness and collaborative efforts aimed at dismantling barriers—particularly in the face of rising protectionism and unilateralism witnessed globally.

Li drew attention to the longstanding history of friendly cooperation between China, ASEAN, and GCC countries, stating that this solid historical foundation bodes well for an increasingly vibrant future. He expressed confidence that trilateral cooperation would open up broader avenues for development, raise economic efficiency, and foster a more dynamic innovation ecosystem among the three blocs.

Discussing China’s domestic outlook, Li noted that the nation’s economy has continued to recover and improve since the start of the year, demonstrating remarkable resilience. He outlined China's proactive approach, highlighting ongoing counter-cyclical policy measures and a strategic focus on expanding domestic demand and strengthening internal economic circulation. Premier Li affirmed that China will persist in opening its economy to a higher degree, expressing both governmental and public confidence in steering the "big ship" of the Chinese economy steadily forward, despite mounting global challenges.

At the opening ceremony, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the inaugural ASEAN-China-GCC Summit had issued a joint statement reflecting trilateral solidarity and cooperation. Anwar acknowledged China’s pivotal role as a partner to both ASEAN and the GCC, particularly in promoting economic growth, upholding fairness, and maintaining regional peace and stability.

Anwar reiterated ASEAN’s commitment to independence and self-reliance, emphasizing the region’s determination to deepen partnerships with China and the GCC. He called for reinforced cooperation across sectors such as economy, trade, and investment, aiming for greater contributions to both regional and global prosperity and stability in the years ahead.