Chinese President Xi Jinping sent out congratulations to the newly launched Global South Media and Think Tank Forum, which commenced on November 14, 2024, in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The forum, running under the theme "Development and Revitalization: A New Journey for the Global South," aims to address the role of Global South countries and their media organizations in the larger international community.
Xi articulated China’s commitment to being part of the Global South, claiming it has always classified itself among the developing nations. He emphasized the significance of pursuing modernization and creating equitable international systems as central missions for countries within the Global South. This forum marks an imperative occasion for exploring these themes and addressing distinct challenges faced by these nations.
Significantly, Xi encouraged participants at the forum to actively engage in discussions, build consensus, and amplify the "voice of the Global South." He hopes the media and think tanks would contribute constructive ideas and strategies to empower the Global South, facilitating its role as both stabilizing and innovative forces globally.
Alongside Xi's remarks, Brazilian President Luiz Ignacio Lula da Silva also extended greetings to the forum attendees. Both leaders' messages highlighted the importance of the Global South's collective development and readiness to influence international governance positively.
The Global South Media and Think Tank Forum was organized by the Xinhua News Agency and the Brazil Communication Company, aiming to bring together voices and insights from various countries. Approximately 350 representatives from around 170 media organizations and think tanks participated from over 70 countries. This diverse participation reinforced the forum's commitment not only to conversation but also to collective action.
Throughout the inaugural event, various initiatives and frameworks were introduced. Participants unveiled the Global South Media News Network, the Sao Paulo Declaration of the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum, and the report titled "Awakening of the Global South." These efforts were developed as strategic responses to the pressing political and economical challenges faced by the Global South, embodying aspirations for progress and mutual cooperation.
Notable attendees included Dima Al-Khatib, director of the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation, and Yeidckol Polevnsky Gurwitz from the Mexican Senate. They called for joint actions among the media and think tanks to prioritize the development of the Global South, reinforcing the narrative of cooperation and shared responsibility.
Discussions primarily focused on themes such as global peace, resilience, and the need for reform in global governance to reflect the realities faced by developing nations. With media and think tanks as pivotal players, the forum sought to inspire partnerships aimed at bolstering the Global South's influence and contributions on the world stage.
Experts at the forum stressed how important it is for these nations to present united narratives advocating for their interests. At this time when the Global South is gaining more attention and significance, there is hope to showcase how important it is for these countries to come together to influence global perspectives and decision-making.
Movements like these indicate broader trends of solidarity among the countries of the Global South. With increased collaboration, these nations can assume more significant roles and responsibilities, shaping their futures progressively and positively.
Overall, the inauguration of the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum opens avenues for collaboration, innovation, and dialogue surrounding development aspirations. The hope is for the projects introduced and relationships forged here to yield tangible outcomes, promoting growth and empowerment among Global South nations.
