China can become an important supporter of Global South development: Chinese scholar

China should and also have the capability to become an important supporter, torchbearer, and promoter of the continued development of Global South countries, Li Xiaoyun, a professor at China Agricultural University, said at the Global Times Annual Conference 2025, themed "Moving forward in Partnership: Resonance of Values between China and the World," which took place in Beijing on Saturday.

During the session on "The Resurgence of the Awakening of the Global South: Mutual Learning and Resonance," Li emphasized the need to recognize the complexity of national conditions of Global South countries, stating that their development must take into account geopolitical changes and various other factors, instead of original imagination. 

He noted that China is a member of the Global South while also having some differences from other Global South countries.
Li pointed out that without a core driving force, the Global South would be fragmented. In his view, this core driving force should have the capacity to provide economic support, development experience, and to establish organizations that serve the interests of Global South countries. From this perspective, he believes that China currently meets the requirements.

Li made further remarks: first, China is the only country within the Global South that has the capacity to engage in substantial South-South cooperation; second, China possesses unique development experiences; and third, China actively promotes organizations focused on the development of Global South countries, such as the BRICS New Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

China's positioning among Global South countries should be as an important resource supporter, experience provider, and a true force for unity, Li said.