2021 Boao Forum Opening Ceremony Video Message... "Asia Must Cooperate in COVID-19 Response"
[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] President Moon Jae-in warned on the 20th through a video message at the '2021 Boao Forum Opening Ceremony' that "multilateral cooperation with enhanced inclusiveness is necessary," adding, "Trade and investment environments have contracted due to COVID-19, and nationalism and protectionism are spreading. Ultimately, these will become barriers that hinder the recovery of the global economy."
President Moon said, "I would like to reaffirm Korea's responsibility to overcome the crises facing the world and achieve an 'inclusive recovery,' and to discuss Asia's role and ways to strengthen global governance," stating this.
President Moon said, "In the post-COVID era, solidarity and cooperation in the international community are more important than anything else for coexistence and new prosperity," and added, "Through the RCEP agreement concluded last year, I hope to accelerate regional economic cooperation, restore trust in multilateralism, and advance free trade."
President Moon said, "We must respond jointly to COVID-19 starting from Asia. No country can win the war against COVID-19 alone, without consideration for its neighbors," and added, "Through the 'Northeast Asia Disease Control and Health Cooperation Mechanism' launched last year, I expect regional cooperation to be solidified and Asia to set an example in overcoming COVID-19."
President Moon emphasized, "Joint action for a 'green recovery' is an urgent issue. The climate crisis requires a global response," and said, "The '2021 P4G Seoul Summit' will be held in Seoul this May. I hope many Asian countries will show interest and participate so that it can be a venue to overcome the climate crisis and open a sustainable future."
Additionally, President Moon stated, "We must prepare for the future through cooperation in new technology and innovation governance," and evaluated, "Patents are a representative indicator of technological development and innovation. Asia is leading innovation to the extent that three countries?Korea, China, and Japan?are included among the top five patent applicants."
Meanwhile, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Boao Forum, President Moon also extended congratulatory remarks. He explained, "Over the past 20 years, solutions to global economic and social issues have been sought, and Asian countries have practiced the spirit of ‘Gudongjoni’?recognizing each other's differences and pursuing common interests?through the Boao Forum."
President Moon said, "‘Gudongjoni’ is a path of inclusion and coexistence, and it is an important value and principle in overcoming the common human crisis of COVID-19," adding, "I believe that this year's Boao Forum theme, ‘Strengthening Global Governance,’ also stems from the spirit of ‘Gudongjoni.’"
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