A Beacon of Hope and Progress for the Global South, Says Lebanese Expert

China's ongoing progress has significantly benefited its own population and also provided a renewed sense of optimism for nations within the Global South, according to Lebanese expert Refaat Badawi. He emphasized that China is actively working towards a more equitable and inclusive global environment. This includes providing crucial assistance to developing countries as they strive for independence, self-determination, and sustainable advancement.

Badawi highlighted China's diplomatic initiatives aimed at promoting regional stability. He pointed to China's role in mediating the restoration of relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, as well as its consistent support for a two-state solution to the Palestinian issue. He noted that China advocates for a new, just, and multipolar world order founded on developmental fairness and mutual benefit.

Over the past decade, China has launched several global cooperation platforms, including the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. These initiatives are designed to foster connectivity, peace, and mutual understanding, particularly among countries in the Global South. Badawi stated that China's support and increased cooperation with Global South nations in various development areas are rooted in the belief that access to knowledge is essential for balanced global development.

Badawi also observed that China's involvement in multilateral platforms, such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, demonstrates its commitment to reforming global governance in a more equitable manner. He believes that China's accomplishments in sustainable development, achieved through knowledge, technology, self-reliance, poverty reduction, and the promotion of social justice, warrant careful study.

Furthermore, Badawi believes that China's rapid advancements in the digital economy and artificial intelligence (AI) offer the Global South an opportunity to accelerate its development. He anticipates that future development will involve deeper technology partnerships, data sharing, and AI training, which will pave the way for inclusive innovation across the Global South. Looking forward, Badawi called for increased people-to-people exchanges and deeper dialogue between China and the Global South. He emphasized that China should be recognized as a pathway to development, progress, and hope for a new, just, and multipolar world order.