HQF "Globalization and Youth Development" Sub-Forum Concludes

November 11, 2024

 

On November 6, 2024, the "Globalization and Youth Development: Creating a Shared Better Future" Sub-Forum of the Seventh Hongqiao International Economic Forum (HQF), co-hosted by the Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and organized by the China International Import Expo Bureau and Taihe Institute, took place at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai).

 

Leila Pakkala, Director of UNICEF Supply Division

Leila Pakkala, Director of UNICEF Supply Division, stated in her opening remarks that, in today’s globalized world, young people face multiple challenges, including unequal access to education and employment challenges. She stressed the need to equip young people with the tools and opportunities to tackle inequality, climate change, and economic disruption. This includes promoting green transition, bridging digital divide, and cultivating a sustainable ecosystem to empower young people to shape a better and more equitable future for all.

 

Yao Ming, Vice President of the All-China Youth Federation

In his keynote speech, Yao Ming, Vice President of the All-China Youth Federation, emphasized that globalization, coupled with rapid technological and economic progress, provides young people with unprecedented opportunities to engage with the world and develop a global mindset. However, he also pointed out that these advancements come with challenges, such as worsening environmental crises and economic inequality. Yao called on young people to actively seek solutions for sustainable development in this interconnected world. He underscored that the youth plays a vital role in driving technological innovation, fostering cultural exchange, and creating new global governance systems. Young people must play a full role in shaping the world's future by embracing opportunities, meeting challenges head-on, and taking on meaningful responsibilities.

 

Zhang Yongmin, Academician at Académie Nationale de Pharmacie

Zhang Yongmin, Academician at Académie Nationale de Pharmacie, highlighted in his keynote speech that France was the first major Western nation to establish diplomatic ties with China and sign an intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in science and technology with China. He noted that exchanges and collaborations between Chinese and French universities and research institutions have flourished in a broad range of areas, benefiting both countries and creating an effective platform for youth development and cultural exchange. With 2024 marking the 60th anniversary of Sino-French diplomatic relations and the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism, the two countries have witnessed a surge in cultural, educational, tourism, sports, and artistic exchanges. This sub-forum will further propel youth exchanges and collaborations between China and France, inspiring young people from both countries to demonstrate their responsibility through concrete actions.

 

Hugo Duminil-Copin, Professor at IHES (Institut des Hautes Études Scientifiques) and the University of Geneva and a Fields medalist 2022

Hugo Duminil-Copin, Professor at IHES (Institut des Hautes Études Scientifiques) and the University of Geneva and a Fields medalist 2022, referred to the youth as a driving force in scientific and technological innovation. He emphasized that young people, with their bold courage and fresh perspectives, bring new ideas and approaches to problem-solving. He noted that youth is the ideal time to spark curiosity and explore uncharted territories. He stressed the importance of sharing knowledge, promoting open science and international collaboration, and accelerating scientific progress. He also underscored the value of basic research and the need to create a diverse environment for research and talent development. This will spark young people's creativity and curiosity, providing a supportive foundation for their growth and innovation.

 

Toily Kurbanov, Executive Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers

Toily Kurbanov, Executive Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers, delivered a featured speech.

 

During the roundtable sessions, participants engaged in insightful discussions, including experts and scholars such as Yu Miaojie (President of Liaoning University), Christopher Thomas (Founder of Integrated Insights Ltd.), and Bolor-Erdene Battsengel (Strategic Engagement Advisor at SpaceX) and business leaders such as Maurice Louis-Dreyfus (Member of the Supervisory Board of Louis Dreyfus Holding B.V.), Timothe Dupont (President of Lesaffre Asia Pacific Region), and Abdullah Al Araf (Co-Founder and CEO of EcoTech Innovation). They explored various topics, such as "Opportunities and Challenges Faced by Youth Under Economic Globalization" and "The Tide of Technological Advances: Innovation and Entrepreneurship by Youth," sharing their valuable visions for youth development.

 

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