Pakistan is among 26 founding countries of the Boao Forum for Asia, established in 2001. The name Boao comes from a small town of fishermen in Hainan Province in southern China. The Boao Forum has been regularly held in March or April every year since 2002. It is a forum for discussing issues and problems, as well as an exchange of ideas among Asian countries. Usually heads of state, ministers, senior officials, scientists, economists, social activists, politicians and media personnel attend this forum. It is a non-profit organization and was initially only open to Asia-Pacific countries. Today membership has grown from 26 in 2001 to 80, itself a major achievement

Pakistan has always been a strong supporter of the forum, actively participating every year. Most of our presidents and prime ministers have attended. This year, Prime Minister H.E. Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, along with senior ministers and senior officials, will participate in the forum which will be held from April 8 to 11. The Pakistan embassy in Beijing has established temporary camp offices in Boao and Sanya cities, to facilitate participation of Pakistani delegates.

This year the theme of the forum is “An Open and Innovative Asia for a World of Greater Prosperity”, a pertinent and timely one. Asia is becoming a region of more integrated countries forging partnerships in diverse fields, including the economy, environment, trade, technology, education, energy and ecology. In these circumstances “Openness and Innovation” are even more relevant. BFA is a platform, where leaders, thinkers and experts from all walks of life are under one roof. One can expect many solutions and opportunities for Asian countries from this forum. It is expected more than 2,000 delegates will attend.

China is a role model and leader for the rest of Asia. Above all, China is sincerely willing to assist any country in the region in the course of their development. The Belt and Road Initiative promotes peace, harmony, and prosperity for the whole region. More and more countries are joining the initiative; to date, 69 countries have become member states in BRI.

President Xi will address the forum this year. His presence will ensure all initiatives or decisions made during BFA will be implemented fully. The continuation of policies and sustainability of initiatives will be ensured, and the dream of Asian countries will come true.

The author is a sinologist, at the Chinese Studies Center of Excellence for the National University of Sciences and Technology in Islamabad, Pakistan.