What stood out was how each of us viewed the same challenge: multilateralism is too often trapped in ideology. Whether in the form of the Sustainable Development Goals or the mandates of development banks, the rhetoric is not always matched by practical outcomes.
As I said during the discussion, “we need to move away from ideology towards practical, solution-based approaches, and focus on building ecosystems rather than huge structures.” Smaller nations are already showing the way. From Singapore in Asia to Rwanda in Africa, new cross-border payment systems are being built that serve local businesses and citizens directly. “The more networked we are with each other, the more stable we are in our relationships with each other.”
Zhu highlighted China’s remarkable transition from recipient to contributor in global development, and the urgent need for reform in multilateral banks to mobilise far greater resources. Erik reminded us that the UN’s mission must remain centred on peace and sustainable development, with tangible benefits for communities from Africa to Asia.
As China advances its next five-year plan, its ecological civilisation framework and zero-emissions goals set important benchmarks for the region. But the true test for all of us is whether multilateral cooperation delivers results that people can feel — from better education and health to sustainable livelihoods.
Multilateralism will only remain relevant if it moves from ideology to impact.
