Core Viewpoint - The eighth Hongqiao International Economic Forum emphasizes the importance of open trade and security development in the context of global economic challenges, including protectionism and unilateralism [1][3]. Group 1: Forum Overview - The forum, held in Shanghai, gathered nearly 20 experts from academia, strategy, business, and think tanks to discuss building an open, inclusive, and balanced global trade system [1]. - The event included the release of a think tank research report titled "Pathways to Coexistence in Trade Security Development between China and the World by 2050" [1][10]. Group 2: Key Themes and Discussions - Open trade is highlighted as a means to build trust among different governments and systems, promoting shared prosperity [5]. - The report emphasizes that future trade security will involve not only national strategies but also micro-level enterprise survival and macro-level governance [10]. - Experts agree that China's ongoing high-level opening-up efforts provide a stable foundation for reconstructing the global economic order amidst rising uncertainties [25][31]. Group 3: Expert Insights - Michelle Umulenge from Rwanda stressed that open trade is a driving force for peace and development, supported by initiatives like the Belt and Road [5]. - Jeffrey Sachs criticized the U.S. protectionist policies, arguing they undermine multilateralism and global prosperity [8][29]. - Martin Jacques noted a shift in global narratives from economic growth to security priorities, influenced by Western countries' strategies against China [17]. Group 4: Future Directions - The report outlines a vision for 2050, proposing a "coexistence security" model as a core pathway for trade development [10]. - It calls for innovative rules and collaborative global governance to address trade security challenges [10]. - The discussions highlighted the need for countries to seek balance through openness amidst structural changes in globalization [23][32].

Group 1 - The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is evolving into a community of shared destiny, driven by mutual respect and partnership, under China's leadership [3][4] - The upcoming 2025 SCO summit is expected to attract significant international attention, reflecting China's growing influence and the organization's strong appeal [3] - The SCO plays a crucial role in enhancing security cooperation among member states, particularly in the context of current global crises and challenges posed by Western hegemony [3] Group 2 - The organization promotes true multilateralism and aims for inclusive, sustainable development, aligning with the United Nations' 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda [4] - The increasing number of countries seeking to join the SCO indicates its strong attractiveness, rooted in the "Shanghai Spirit" which emphasizes dialogue over confrontation [4] - The SCO serves as a vital platform for enhancing cooperation between Egypt and China across various sectors, including energy, health, education, and digital economy [4]