Regional co-operation important to countering protectionism'

ZHANG Jun, secretary general of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA), has underlined the growing importance of regional cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by unilateralism and protectionism, saying such cooperation can strengthen the security, diversity, and stability of industrial and supply chains, thereby boosting regional economic resilience.

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In a recent exclusive interview on the sidelines of the BFA Riyadh Conference 2025, which was held from Wednesday to Thursday in the Saudi capital Riyadh, Zhang said conference participants widely agreed that adhering to open development is the right approach to addressing global challenges.

Openness not only refers to opening markets, but also to upholding the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits. It reflects inclusiveness, mutual learning, and win-win cooperation, while firmly opposing unilateralism and protectionism, he explained.