IVEN ZYUULU, Ambassador of Zambia to China, delivered a speech at the opening ceremony
date：2023-12-15 17:24:08 hits：
The 5th Belt and Road Women’s Forum successfully convened in Sanya, Hainan from December 6-8. Co-hosted by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese, and the UN Resident Coordinator Office in China, and jointly organized by the People’s Government of Sanya City, the China Friendship Foundation for Peace and Development, and the Secretariat of the Belt and Road Women’s Forum. Chen Xi, Mayor of the People’s Government of Sanya City, attended the opening ceremony of the forum and delivered a speech.
IVEN ZYUULU, Ambassador of Zambia to China, delivered a speech at the opening ceremony
Mr. Chen Xi, Mayor of the People’s Government of Sanya City,
Mr. Li Xikui, Vice President of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries,
Mrs. Cheng Hong, Vice President of All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese,
Your Excellency, First Lady of Guyana, Mrs. Arya Ali,
Your Excellency, UN Resident Coordinator Office in China, Mr. Siddharth Chatterjee,
Your Excellencies Ambassadors,
Distinguished Participants,
It is my honor and privilege to be part of the 5th Belt and Road Women's Forum here in Sanya, Hainan Province, with the theme ‘She Power: Jointly Building and Sharing a Beautiful Life,’ organized by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese, and the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office in China.
Excellencies, Distinguished Participants,
Allow me to join those who spoke earlier in expressing gratitude to the leadership of Sanya, Hainan Province, for inviting the Zambian Embassy to this important forum and giving us a very warm reception to this beautiful city.
May I take this opportunity to acknowledge the strong bond of friendship between the Republic of Zambia and the People’s Republic of China that has existed for over 59 years, which was founded by the first Republican President of Zambia, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, and Chairman Mao Zedong of China.
Our historical ties and friendship stem from the mutual interests of our two great countries and peoples and have continued to grow from strength to strength. During the recent state visit to China by the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, in September 2023, the President of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Xi Jinping, and his Zambian counterpart upgraded our relationship to a comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership, making it broader, deeper, and including more sectors of cooperation.
China’s continued assistance to Zambia through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), among others, has led to sustained and consistent strengthening of both economic and cultural ties. We in Zambia are proud to have worked with China to put up critical infrastructure in Zambia such as the Tanzania Zambia Railway (TAZARA), Kafue water reticulation projects, roads, airports, and hydropower stations.
Distinguished Delegates,
I must hasten to mention that Zambia will continue to uphold the One China Policy and treasure these relations and ensure strengthened cooperation in various sectors in a mutually beneficial and win-win situation for our two countries.
Excellencies, Distinguished Participants,
The Belt and Road Initiative, as envisioned and launched by China some 10 years ago, is a transformative endeavor that seeks to enhance regional connectivity and embrace a brighter future through economic cooperation. This ambitious project spans across continents, linking Asia with Europe and Africa, and involves investments in infrastructure, trade, and economic development.
However, the success of such a grand scheme is not just measured in miles of railroads or tons of cargo; it is also gauged by its inclusivity and sustainability, areas where women's participation is crucial. Women, constituting half the world's population, play an indispensable role in the economic, social, and cultural fabric of our societies. In the context of the BRI, their contribution can be multifaceted and deeply impactful through:
1. Economic Empowerment: Women, as entrepreneurs and business leaders, can significantly contribute to the economic vitality along the BRI routes. Supporting women-led businesses, especially in sectors like trade, manufacturing, and services, can lead to more inclusive economic growth.
2. Social and Community Development: Women are often at the forefront of community and social development. Their involvement in BRI projects can ensure that the development is holistic, benefiting not just economies but also the communities and societies at large.
3. Cross-Cultural Communication and Understanding: Women have traditionally played a key role in fostering understanding and cooperation across cultures. Their involvement in the BRI can enhance cross-cultural dialogues, promoting peace and understanding among nations involved in the initiative.
4. Environmental Sustainability: Women's participation in environmental management is critical, especially in a project as vast as the BRI. Their perspective can help in designing and implementing sustainable practices in infrastructure development, ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of our planet.
5. Policy Making and Governance: Including women in the decision-making processes related to BRI ensures that policies are more representative and cater to a broader spectrum of the population. Gender-inclusive policies tend to be more comprehensive and equitable.
To leverage the full potential of women in the BRI, it is imperative to:
- Ensure equal opportunities for women in education and vocational training, particularly in fields relevant to BRI projects.
- Create enabling environments for women entrepreneurs, including access to finance, markets and networks.
- Implement policies that promote gender equality in the workplace, especially in sectors involved in the BRI.
- Foster an inclusive culture that recognizes and values the contributions of women in all aspects of the BRI.
The Belt and Road Initiative presents a historic opportunity to reshape the economic landscape of our interconnected world. The active participation and empowerment of women in this endeavor are not just a matter of equality and rights; it is a cornerstone for the success and sustainability of the BRI. As we continue on this journey, let us ensure that it remains an inclusive, equitable, and prosperous path for all, regardless of gender.
Distinguished Participants,
The theme of this forum ‘She Power: Jointly Building and Sharing a Beautiful Life’ was well thought of by the organizers. The theme is talking to the designed expansion in the number of female public leaders and business owners, particularly focusing on under-served young females' success and redefining the vision of leadership to excel in personal life while owning personal power.
Distinguished Participants,
To be a strong woman, you need to have a lot of patience and perseverance. A strong woman also exudes confidence and is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. But these are not genetic traits. Every woman builds her strength and confidence over time, while facing various life challenges and learning from past mistakes.
Distinguished Participants,
Women are unique and go through different experiences. At the end of the day, strong women are not only those who have built a successful career; life is about so much more than that. Every woman who is able to deal with her own challenges is a strong woman.
This forum recognizes women’s incredible achievements and raises awareness for women. Ladies should be celebrated for their critical role in society and are encouraged to take up science and technology in order to close the gap in gender equality.
In this regard, Zambia and China have continued to work together in implementing this development agenda which has strongly been supported and has always been a global concern. This resonates well with the current socioeconomic standing and gender equality, which are mainly reflected in women empowerment, as well as labor market participation.
Excellencies, Distinguished Participants,
Let me end by stating that the gender was echoed by the Chinese leader Mr. Xi Jinping when he announced at the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that he promised to “promote common development and prosperity so as to bring benefits to our people.” This fully included women as key participants in the initiative.
As I conclude, let me once again thank the organizers for inviting me to this important event and wish you fruitful discussions as well as a very successful forum.
Thank you for your attention.
Xie Xie
Mr. Li Xikui, Vice President of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries,
Mrs. Cheng Hong, Vice President of All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese,
Your Excellency, First Lady of Guyana, Mrs. Arya Ali,
Your Excellency, UN Resident Coordinator Office in China, Mr. Siddharth Chatterjee,
Your Excellencies Ambassadors,
Distinguished Participants,
It is my honor and privilege to be part of the 5th Belt and Road Women's Forum here in Sanya, Hainan Province, with the theme ‘She Power: Jointly Building and Sharing a Beautiful Life,’ organized by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese, and the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office in China.
Excellencies, Distinguished Participants,
Allow me to join those who spoke earlier in expressing gratitude to the leadership of Sanya, Hainan Province, for inviting the Zambian Embassy to this important forum and giving us a very warm reception to this beautiful city.
May I take this opportunity to acknowledge the strong bond of friendship between the Republic of Zambia and the People’s Republic of China that has existed for over 59 years, which was founded by the first Republican President of Zambia, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, and Chairman Mao Zedong of China.
Our historical ties and friendship stem from the mutual interests of our two great countries and peoples and have continued to grow from strength to strength. During the recent state visit to China by the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, in September 2023, the President of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Xi Jinping, and his Zambian counterpart upgraded our relationship to a comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership, making it broader, deeper, and including more sectors of cooperation.
China’s continued assistance to Zambia through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), among others, has led to sustained and consistent strengthening of both economic and cultural ties. We in Zambia are proud to have worked with China to put up critical infrastructure in Zambia such as the Tanzania Zambia Railway (TAZARA), Kafue water reticulation projects, roads, airports, and hydropower stations.
Distinguished Delegates,
I must hasten to mention that Zambia will continue to uphold the One China Policy and treasure these relations and ensure strengthened cooperation in various sectors in a mutually beneficial and win-win situation for our two countries.
Excellencies, Distinguished Participants,
The Belt and Road Initiative, as envisioned and launched by China some 10 years ago, is a transformative endeavor that seeks to enhance regional connectivity and embrace a brighter future through economic cooperation. This ambitious project spans across continents, linking Asia with Europe and Africa, and involves investments in infrastructure, trade, and economic development.
However, the success of such a grand scheme is not just measured in miles of railroads or tons of cargo; it is also gauged by its inclusivity and sustainability, areas where women's participation is crucial. Women, constituting half the world's population, play an indispensable role in the economic, social, and cultural fabric of our societies. In the context of the BRI, their contribution can be multifaceted and deeply impactful through:
1. Economic Empowerment: Women, as entrepreneurs and business leaders, can significantly contribute to the economic vitality along the BRI routes. Supporting women-led businesses, especially in sectors like trade, manufacturing, and services, can lead to more inclusive economic growth.
2. Social and Community Development: Women are often at the forefront of community and social development. Their involvement in BRI projects can ensure that the development is holistic, benefiting not just economies but also the communities and societies at large.
3. Cross-Cultural Communication and Understanding: Women have traditionally played a key role in fostering understanding and cooperation across cultures. Their involvement in the BRI can enhance cross-cultural dialogues, promoting peace and understanding among nations involved in the initiative.
4. Environmental Sustainability: Women's participation in environmental management is critical, especially in a project as vast as the BRI. Their perspective can help in designing and implementing sustainable practices in infrastructure development, ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of our planet.
5. Policy Making and Governance: Including women in the decision-making processes related to BRI ensures that policies are more representative and cater to a broader spectrum of the population. Gender-inclusive policies tend to be more comprehensive and equitable.
To leverage the full potential of women in the BRI, it is imperative to:
- Ensure equal opportunities for women in education and vocational training, particularly in fields relevant to BRI projects.
- Create enabling environments for women entrepreneurs, including access to finance, markets and networks.
- Implement policies that promote gender equality in the workplace, especially in sectors involved in the BRI.
- Foster an inclusive culture that recognizes and values the contributions of women in all aspects of the BRI.
The Belt and Road Initiative presents a historic opportunity to reshape the economic landscape of our interconnected world. The active participation and empowerment of women in this endeavor are not just a matter of equality and rights; it is a cornerstone for the success and sustainability of the BRI. As we continue on this journey, let us ensure that it remains an inclusive, equitable, and prosperous path for all, regardless of gender.
Distinguished Participants,
The theme of this forum ‘She Power: Jointly Building and Sharing a Beautiful Life’ was well thought of by the organizers. The theme is talking to the designed expansion in the number of female public leaders and business owners, particularly focusing on under-served young females' success and redefining the vision of leadership to excel in personal life while owning personal power.
Distinguished Participants,
To be a strong woman, you need to have a lot of patience and perseverance. A strong woman also exudes confidence and is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. But these are not genetic traits. Every woman builds her strength and confidence over time, while facing various life challenges and learning from past mistakes.
Distinguished Participants,
Women are unique and go through different experiences. At the end of the day, strong women are not only those who have built a successful career; life is about so much more than that. Every woman who is able to deal with her own challenges is a strong woman.
This forum recognizes women’s incredible achievements and raises awareness for women. Ladies should be celebrated for their critical role in society and are encouraged to take up science and technology in order to close the gap in gender equality.
In this regard, Zambia and China have continued to work together in implementing this development agenda which has strongly been supported and has always been a global concern. This resonates well with the current socioeconomic standing and gender equality, which are mainly reflected in women empowerment, as well as labor market participation.
Excellencies, Distinguished Participants,
Let me end by stating that the gender was echoed by the Chinese leader Mr. Xi Jinping when he announced at the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that he promised to “promote common development and prosperity so as to bring benefits to our people.” This fully included women as key participants in the initiative.
As I conclude, let me once again thank the organizers for inviting me to this important event and wish you fruitful discussions as well as a very successful forum.
Thank you for your attention.
Xie Xie
The theme of the forum, ‘She Power: Jointly Building and Sharing a Beautiful Life,’ reflects a focus on women’s unique contributions and empowerment within the context of the Belt and Road Initiative. Organized by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese, and the All-China Youth Federation, along with the People’s Government of Sanya City leadership, the forum brought together over 400 participants. These included the First Lady of Guyana, representatives from the United Nations, Nobel laureates in Physiology or Medicine, and ambassadors from Kyrgyzstan, Zambia, Maldives, Switzerland, Nepal, Guyana, Uganda, Mozambique, and various other countries, along with national and international business representatives.
During the forum, in-depth discussions and exchanges took place around the theme. Guests shared insights on the distinctive role played by women in the ten years since the Belt and Road Initiative was launched. They highlighted the substantial achievements of women and looked forward to the future of the initiative, advocating for women’s empowerment to foster common development and prosperity in human society.
2023 marks the tenth anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. Over the past decade, the Belt and Road Women’s Forum has been instrumental in showcasing the unique role of women in the development of the Belt and Road Initiative, promoting comprehensive and sustainable development for women, and enhancing people-to-people connections among the participating countries. The forum has successfully established a platform for communication and collaboration among women across the Belt and Road countries, building bridges for mutual understanding and cooperation.