aking center stage amid frictions between the world’s two largest economies, the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) this year became a platform for conveying the Chinese viewpoint to the world. In the past the forum has promoted economic cooperation within Asia as well as between Asia with the rest of the world. It has often been a venue for economic debate and dialogue for leaders, experts and businesspeople alike. Having grown in prominence and significance considerably since the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank took off, the gathering in China’s Hainan province this year was well attended, with representatives from 29 countries and top international financial institutions. The daily Report Must-reads from across Asia - directly to your inbox What made it a landmark event was the Chinese president’s keynote speech, which carried potential to turn the tide of an imminent trade war. Focusing on reform, innovation and “opening up” ...
Foreign Affairs Journalist and geopolitical analyst with special focus on the Belt and Road Initiative, CPEC and South Asia