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The Global South, with a roughly 40 percent share of the global GDP and 85 percent of the world’s population, is experiencing a rising importance in global affairs. As the BRICS countries head into their annual summit in the Russian city of Kazan, issues that are most important to the developing countries are taking the central spotlight.
The International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the China Media Group (CMG) have jointly hosted the “Peace · Development · Security: Jointly Build a Prosperous World with a Shared Future” Global South Think Tanks Forum on this occasion. The forum invited representatives of 40 think tanks from Global South countries to discuss the future of global development in an era of great change and turbulence.
The forum saw the attending representatives sign and release the Initiative of Global South Think Tanks to Jointly Build a Prosperous World with a Shared Future. This initiative will fully leverage the functions of the think tanks of these countries to move forward together and form synergy to help the Global South countries advance faster and further on the path of pursuing development, prosperity, fairness, and justice.
Dr. TALING Speech on the theme “Peace, Development, Security: Jointly Build a Prosperous World with a Shared Future” for the Global South Think Tanks Forum on October 16th, 2024 organized by CGTN.
” Ladies and gentlemen, friends and distinguished guests from around the world,
It is an honor to stand before you today, at the Global South Think Tanks Forum, hosted by the Chinese national Television CGTN. Our gathering comes at a critical juncture in history, where “peace, development, and security” have become key words for the survival of the human civilization and the entire human race. As we discuss the vital mission of jointly building a prosperous world with a shared future, let us remember that our strength lies in our unity and collaboration.
In recent years, we have witnessed the deepening impacts of wars, conflicts, inequality, and climate change across the globe. These challenges are not confined to borders; they resonate in every corner of the Global South. As think tanks, we hold a unique responsibility to inform policies that promote peace and stability, not only within our nations but across the globe.
Firstly, I will articulate that:
“Peace is the Cornerstone upon which Development is built.”
Without peace, there can be no sustainable progress. We must advocate for dialogue and understanding, emphasizing diplomacy over conflict. As representatives of the Global South, we are in a unique position to foster peace initiatives that reflect our shared histories and cultures. Together, we can build frameworks for conflict resolution that prioritize dialogue, inclusivity, and mutual respect.
Secondly, let me remind that:
“Development is the pathway to prosperity.”
However, we must redefine what development really means in our context. It is not merely economic growth; it is about ensuring that every person, every community, has the opportunity to thrive. We need to invest in education, healthcare, and infrastructure that empowers our people. By harnessing our collective resources and expertise, we can create sustainable models of development that are both inclusive and equitable between the Global North and the Global South. This requires innovative thinking and collaborative actions across sectors, blending traditional knowledge with modern solutions.
Finally, let’s never forget that:
“Security, whether Individual, National or International, is paramount.”
In fact, it is vital that we view security through a holistic lens, one that encompasses economic security, food security, environmental security, healthcare security, etc. As we confront the realities of climate change for example, we must recognize that environmental degradation threatens not just our ecosystems, but our everyday life. A secure future must include a commitment to sustainability, ensuring that we leave a healthy planet for generations to come.
Wars and conflicts create sufferings and threaten human survival, especially at this age of technological advancement where an Artificially Intelligent War could sign up the extinction of human race.
As we stand here today, let us commit ourselves to a vision of collaboration. The Global South is resources rich, culturally diverse, blessed with knowledge and huge human capital. By sharing our experiences, research, and innovations, we can forge a path toward a more prosperous and peaceful future.
Together, let us create a future where prosperity is not a privilege for the few, but a shared reality for all.
Thank you.”
SOURCE
https://sinafricanews.org/2024/10/23/dr-taling-full-speech-at-the-global-south-think-tanks-forum/
