Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun on Friday called on countries to promote a multipolar world, stressing the importance of equality in handling international affairs.
In his keynote speech delivered at the opening ceremony of the 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum in Beijing, Dong urged members of the international society to treat each other with sincerity and impartiality, and participate in the international affairs on an equal footing.
"This is a platform of sharing and equality. Instead of imposing hierarchy on the international community, countries here are treated equally, regardless of their geographical locations, whether from the East, West, North, or South - every country has a place here," said the minister.
"Both developed and developing nations, either large or small, should impartially participate in international affairs, equally express their request of interests, and safeguard their legitimate rights in a fair manner. In a multipolar global system, every country should find its suitable position and contribute to the overall advancement of human civilization," Dong continued.
Chinese armed forces will resolutely implement the Global Security Initiative, and stand ready to build a new model of security partnerships with militaries around the world, he added.
Themed "Promoting Peace for a Shared Future," this year's forum, which runs until Saturday, is attended by more than 1,800 guests from over 100 countries and international organizations.
Chinese defense minister stresses equality of countries in int'l affairs
Experts said that the farming-friendly measures outlined in the annual government work report will not only motivate farmers to increase grain production but also encourage local governments to place greater emphasis on agriculture and invest more in the sector.
China has raised its grain output target for 2025 to an all time high of over 700 million metric tons, according to the annual government work report.
"Improving the system designed to benefit and enrich grain farmers is a way to support them. For local governments in major grain-producing regions, it's important to establish a coordinated mechanism for inter-provincial compensation led by the central government. This is expected to be implemented this year, ensuring that both grain farmers and local governments in these areas benefit from their efforts to focus on grain production. This is a priority," said Hu Xiangdong, director of the Institute of Agricultural Economics and Development under the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences.
To reach the target, experts highlighted, priority should be given to promoting integrated technologies in the agricultural sector, alongside upgrading related infrastructure and facilities. These measures are expected to boost per unit yield of grain.
"By developing high-standard farmland, advancing facility agriculture, and improving related equipment, we can strengthen our disaster prevention and mitigation capabilities. The key to increasing yield per unit is effectively combining the application of integrated technology with improvements in agricultural conditions, such as production in high-standard farmland," said Li Guoxiang, a research fellow at the Institute of Rural Development of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
Moreover, the government work report this year also outlined plans to stabilize grain prices, a key concern for farmers, and ensure that the prices of major agricultural products remain within a reasonable range.
"Recently, grain prices have stabilized and started to rise, while livestock and poultry product prices have remained steady. This is encouraging news for farmers. By maintaining reasonable prices, farmers can better benefit from growing grain and engaging in agricultural production," Li said.
Experts applaud farming-friendly measures outlined in government work report
