Integration to bolster Asia's competitiveness

China called on Asian economies to seek greater economic integration to boost regional competitiveness so as to better address challenges amid rising protectionism and unilateralism.

"Against the backdrop of economic uncertainties, Asian economies maintained a sound momentum of steady growth, contributing to around 60 percent of global GDP growth over the past decade or so," said Li Baodong, secretary-general of the Boao Forum for Asia, at a news conference on Tuesday in Boao, Hainan province.

Uncertainties mainly arise from protectionism and potential financial tightening, leading economists and experts said prior to the forum, which will officially begin on Thursday.