The 2024 China Economic and Social Forum took center stage in Shanghai on Thursday, drawing over 130 domestic and international participants. The forum revolved around the theme of fostering a community with a shared future for humanity and collaborating to form a modern world.

Hosted by the China Economic and Social Council and organized by the Shanghai Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the event served as a platform for profound discussions and exchanges on pressing global issues.

In his opening remarks, Wang Dongfeng, chairman of the CESC, underscored the global resonance of China's vision for a shared future, emphasizing its positive reception and significant contributions to a harmonious, prosperous and sustainable world.

"China is ready to work with the international community to build an open world economy, join hands on the road to modernization and jointly promote the development and progress of human civilization," Wang said.

The CESC, a national organization and high-end think tank established in 2001 by the CPPCC National Committee, will continue to strengthen exchanges with friends from all walks of life in other countries, deepen exchanges of State governance experience and promote pragmatic cooperation in various fields to strive for a better future for humanity, Wang added.

Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng echoed these sentiments in his welcome address, highlighting the city's pivotal role as an international hub driving technological innovation and fostering global cooperation. Positioned as a pioneer of Chinese-style modernization, Shanghai aims to solidify its status as an international economic, financial, trade, shipping and innovation center, showcasing the bright prospects of China's modernization endeavors.

Miao Wei, a member of the CPPCC National Committee, elaborated on the five key features of Chinese modernization, emphasizing the importance of inclusive development, environmental harmony and peaceful progress. He outlined China's commitment to expanding institutional openness, fostering international industrial partnerships and charting new pathways for global modernization, particularly in green technology sectors.

July Moyo, who leads Zimbabwe's Ministry of Public Service, Labor and Social Welfare, highlighted China's pivotal role in supporting African development through efforts such as infrastructure investment and sustainable initiatives.

"The friendship between Africa and China is the story of people who have come together to build a greater future," Moyo said.

John Jacobs, president of the International Association of Economic and Social Councils and Similar Institutions, shared insights on redefining growth paradigms, emphasizing the significance of shared prosperity over traditional economic metrics. His call for a people-centric approach to measuring progress resonated with attendees, stressing the importance of enhancing societal well-being.

Dimitris Dimitriadis, president of the External Relations Section of the European Economic and Social Committee, concluded his speech with praise for Shanghai's forward-looking ethos, describing his experience as a glimpse into the future.

"I entered the great 22nd century here. I met the future," he said, referring to his visit to Shanghai, which was his first.