Xi stresses unity, reason in virus fight

Noting that stabilizing the economy while controlling the pandemic is the pressing task facing all countries, Xi underlined the need to pursue openness and innovation and promote global economic recovery. "Under the current situation, we need to stand firm for building an open world economy."

The practice of using the pandemic to pursue "de-globalization "or to clamor for "economic decoupling" and "parallel systems" will end up hurting one's own interests and the common interests of all, he said. "We need to uphold the multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its core and reject abuse of the 'national security' concept for protectionist purposes," he added.

Saying that the global economy is experiencing the worst recession since the Great Depression in the 1930s, Xi put forward proposals for BRICS cooperation to overcome global challenges.

"We need to leverage the new business forms and models triggered by the pandemic, strengthen cooperation on scientific and technological innovation, and nurture an open, fair, equitable and nondiscriminatory business environment to bring about common development of higher quality and stronger resilience," he said.

China is willing to work with other BRICS countries to accelerate building a BRICS partnership on the new industrial revolution, Xi said, adding that China will set up an innovation center for such a partnership in Xiamen, Fujian province.

Xi called for prioritizing people's livelihoods to promote sustainable development across the world, saying that development holds the key to solving all problems.

In his speech, Xi also stressed the need to pursue green and low-carbon development, and strive for harmony between man and nature. "We need to implement the Paris Agreement in good faith, stick to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and provide more help to developing countries, particularly the small island developing states," he said.