On 20th January,2026, at the World Economic Forum, Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng delivered a speech that has garnered broad admiration worldwide, casting China in the light of a reliable champion for open markets and collective action amid growing barriers to trade and international discord. Commentators from outlets like CNN and Reuters lauded it as a much-needed reminder of China’s steadying influence, providing a composed alternative to polarising approaches, including the “America First” strategy under US President Donald Trump. Experts from groups such as Headsight viewed it as strong backing for China’s push towards closer ties in the Asia-Pacific region, whereas CGTN, linked to the state, emphasised its sharp rebuke of one-sided tactics, labelling it a stand against a “survival-of-the-fittest” mindset where might trumps right. Given the backdrop of slow economic expansion and splintering trade networks, the address struck a chord with participants eager for joint efforts to tackle common issues.
During his roughly 25-minute talk on Tuesday, with introductions from WEF chief Borge Brende and trustee André Hoffmann, He drew on President Xi Jinping’s earlier appearances at Davos in 2017 and 2021 to reaffirm China’s dedication to a connected global economy. He cautioned against efforts to unwind these ties, echoing Xi’s vivid image that trying to divert the ocean’s flow into separate ponds is utterly futile. Central themes revolved around fostering an “economic globalisation that benefits everyone and includes all,” encouraging the construction of connections over divisions and ensuring fair distribution of gains. He took aim at the surge in self-serving policies and trade shields, referencing WTO figures on the fall in equal-treatment trade from 80% to 72%, alongside IMF projections that such splits might cut global production by 7%. He pointed out that “cooperation brings mutual benefits, while clashes lead to losses,” and framed China as a collaborator, presenting chances, not challenges. He further detailed China’s progress at home, such as a 5.4% yearly growth average across five years, an economy topping CNY 140 trillion, and imports worth $15 trillion, while pledging deeper reforms, advancements in science, safeguards for ideas, and eco-friendly shifts targeting zero carbon by 2060. Wrapping up on a hopeful note, he declared: “Davos thrives on conversation, and our shared future depends on working together.”
This took place during the 56th annual WEF gathering, under the banner “A Spirit of Dialogue,” spanning 19 to 23 January and convening world figures to confront problems like shaky economies and tech upheavals. Established by Klaus Schwab in 1971, the event has always facilitated partnerships between governments and businesses, with China through Xi’s pivotal talks regularly advocating for unrestricted commerce in the face of inward-looking shifts. The atmosphere this year feels especially tense, fuelled by ongoing disputes, Trump’s tough tariffs, and odd moves like urging Denmark to hand over Greenland, all deepening economic rifts. Despite hurdles, China’s bumper trade excess in 2025 highlights its toughness, though it also stirs overseas concerns.
Born in Fujian Province in 1955, He Lifeng has climbed the Chinese Communist Party ladder over 40 years, building a strong bond with Xi Jinping from their overlapping stints in Fujian. Holding economics qualifications from Xiamen and Fudan universities, he occupied significant local positions in Xiamen, Quanzhou, and Fuzhou prior to broader duties, such as leading the National Development and Reform Commission starting in 2017 and serving as Vice-Premier from 2023, managing fiscal and economic matters. His work has centred on boosting spending, tightening financial oversight, and advancing fields like artificial intelligence, solidifying his position as a central figure in China’s modernisation drive.
With the meeting ongoing, He’s words are regarded as enhancing China’s standing on the world stage, promoting talks at a time when teamwork is essential for steering through uncertainty.