On December 2, 2020, H.E. Dr. YUE Xiaoyong attended the TRT World Forum 2020 under the theme “Shifting Dynamics: The International Order in a Post-Pandemic World.” He made a written presentation titled “Upholding the Trend of Peace and Development, Forging Multilateralism, and Promoting Solidarity and Cooperation”, and participated online in the Expert Roundtable on “Great Power Competition in the Balkans.” H.E. Dr. Yue is a China Forum Expert of Center for International Security and Strategy, Tsinghua University and former Ambassador of China to Qatar, Jordan and Ireland.

At the roundtable, H.E. Dr. Yue noted that despite the focus on competition in this session, cooperation is still the dominant theme in the Balkans today. The region will undoubtedly see a more peaceful, stable and prosperous tomorrow on the premise that states, in the spirit of autonomy, equality and mutual respect, work together to advance dialogue and multilateral cooperation based on the principles of the UN Charter. In addition, it also requires positive interaction between the Balkans and the international community. 

It was widely recognized at the roundtable that regional development relies primarily on the region’s own efforts to improve its governance and build its strength to address the economic and development challenges it faces. Meanwhile, constructive interaction and cooperation with Europe is also vitally important for the development of the Balkans.