AT the opening plenary of Summer Davos 2026, Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered a landmark keynote speech that redefined the narrative of China’s economic trajectory. Highlighting the real essence of its economy, Premier Li underscored the value of manufacturing capacity, export diversity and modernization driven by innovations, digitalization and artificial intelligence. Crucially, he strongly rejected Western narratives of a “China Shock 2.0,” warning of the dangers of lagging AI governance and replacing it with “China Opportunity 2.0” as a catalyst for global economic recovery and a strong call to boost international cooperation in innovation.

As the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) period begins, the Chinese economy has undeniably demonstrated stability, vitality and deep integration with the world. Maintaining strong resilience and positive momentum, its stability provides much-needed certainty and serves as an essential “safe haven” in an increasingly fragmented global landscape. Premier Li outlined the fundamental economic and production variables that are attracting growing inflows of foreign direct investment: the vastness of China’s consumer market, a deep pool of high-quality engineers and professionals and the provision of sustainable industrial supply chains. These elements mark the beginning of a new era of quality development, directly supporting the forum’s theme, “Innovating at Scale.”

The gathering itself validated this confidence. With over 1,700 participants from more than 90 countries and regions, the forum focused on China’s next-phase economic trajectory and how to translate technological advances into real economic benefits. This........

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