Shanghai Forum 2018 Theme Interpretation

Against the backdrop of increasingly profound changes in the internationalarena, the constant emergence of new technologies has made the world more andmore intertwined. Not only can development experiences be shared at an instance’snotice, minute changes within the system are also transmitted to every cornerof the world in real time. Adjustments in the internal policies of individualstates may cause global structural shifts or upset the global balance of power.This brings forth an important issue: how can global governance be moreeffective and more universal? A global perspective, coupled with unremitting communication,is indispensable in enabling mutual understanding, accurate recognition andacceptance of reality, and the coordination of all available resources todevelop and even to create a better world.

Indeed, global governance undoubtedly requires the participationof more actors. However, trade protectionism and anti-globalisation sentimentshave been simmering, as seen in “America First”, which implies a strategiccontraction, and Britain's “Brexit”, which reflects the gridlock of regionalintegration. With the creeping rise of extremism, ecological destruction, anddiplomatic, trade, and even militaryconflicts amongst countries, whatchallenges does Asia face? What are its responsibilities? What are its possibleproposals? How can it become a participant, an advocate, or even the maindriving force of global governance? This is the undertaking entrusted to us inthe new era and this may be exactly where Asia’s opportunity lies.

In this age of great change, the only certainty is ubiquitousuncertainty. Therefore, Shanghai Forum has expanded the overarching theme from“EconomicGlobalization and the Choice of Asia”, which has been in use for the lasttwelve years, to “Global Governance and Asia”, in hopes that Asia would be ableto apply its resources and wisdom to a broader scope. Additionally, “Asia'sResponsibilities in a World of Change” would be the theme of Shanghai Forum2018 to explore Asia’s new mission in today’s political and economic worldorder.

We look forward to meeting the top minds in politics, business, academy,and media from all over the world at Shanghai Forum 2018!