Interview: China remains key driver for global economy, main contributor to global peace: Cambodian scholar-Xinhua

China continues to be a major driver of the global economy and a key contributor to international peace and security, according to a Cambodian scholar. By the end of 2025, the nation’s role is expected to evolve from a manufacturing hub to a leader in advanced technology and green energy.

China’s Economic Shift

Joseph Matthews, a senior professor at the BELTEI International University in Cambodia, highlighted China’s impressive development in sectors including digital technology, artificial intelligence, innovation, green energy, electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and solar panels. He noted the speed and global dominance of these sectors.

Commitment to Global Peacekeeping

Beyond economic contributions, China remains a significant supporter of United Nations peacekeeping missions. The country is the second largest financial contributor to the UN peacekeeping budget and provides more troops than any other permanent member of the UN Security Council. Chinese peacekeepers are currently active in missions, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

Global Initiatives and the Belt and Road Initiative

Matthews pointed to the positive impact of China’s global initiatives, such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), and the Global Governance Initiative (GGI). These initiatives have significantly altered the geoeconomic and geostrategic landscape worldwide.

The BRI, in particular, has alleviated poverty in Africa and Asia. Cambodia serves as a prime example of successful BRI cooperation, with transformative infrastructure projects including the Sihanoukville Special Economy Zone, the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway, and the Siem Reap Angkor International Airport driving economic growth, trade, and tourism.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Matthews anticipates China’s role in the regional and global economy and security will become even more important. The country is expected to remain a key driver of innovation and global growth, despite facing global uncertainties.

In terms of global security, China is predicted to continue serving as a stabilizing force, promoting peace, security, and common development. The Global Security Initiative (GSI) is expected to provide a framework for addressing complex security challenges with a win-win approach, improving global security governance, and fostering durable peace and development.